Check-in on your loved ones, letting them know that you're available to talk. Being listened to and recognised can play a large role in recovering from a traumatic event. Victims of crises may feel like a burden on their friends and family; remind them that you're there for them, providing them with a safe space to express their thoughts and worries.
In times of crisis, communities often gather together and support one another. Community provides a sense of connectedness, a key component in resilience and well-being. After a terrific event, individuals seek comfort in being near or around others with whom they can talk, exchange resources, and work together to overcome a terrible situation. Community leaders may also create support groups, raise money to help victims or organise workgroups to send supplies to those in need. Get involved in your community if you feel compelled to help others during this time.
Families with children may be especially vulnerable during a crisis. Children often have a harder time understanding the situation at hand, have a tough time with disruptions to their routines, and are extremely sensitive to their parents' anxiety during difficult times. As they may not have the words to express themselves, their distress may be manifested as changes in sleep patterns and potential nightmares, changes in behaviour, and resistance to their parents - all of which can indicate a need for professional help.