Trauma, depression, grief, loss and crisis

What is trauma?

A person's emotional or physical response to an event that is frightening, dangerous or deeply upsetting.

Does everyone respond to the same traumatic event in the same way?

No. Trauma affects people differently; not everyone responds to an event in the same manner.

What is physical trauma?

Injuries to the body caused by an accident, violence or another harmful event.

Give examples of physical trauma.

Broken bones, burns, cuts, bruises or wounds.

How are physical injuries usually treated, and what else might recovery involve?

They may require medical treatment and often heal over time with correct care. Recovery may also involve emotional challenges such as fear, frustration or anxiety.

What is emotional trauma?

When an event is so frightening, distressing or overwhelming that it has a lasting effect on a person's emotional well-being.

Name six possible signs or effects of emotional trauma.

Difficulty trusting others; anxiety or fear; nightmares or flashbacks; withdrawing from family and friends; difficulty concentrating at school; being easily startled or irritable.

Are reactions after trauma unusual, and can people recover?

These reactions are normal after traumatic experiences. With support and, where necessary, professional help, many people recover and learn healthy ways to manage emotions.

What is depression?

A medical illness—not simply sadness—characterised by persistent sadness and a complete loss of interest in normally enjoyable activities, together with difficulty carrying out daily activities.

What is the difference between sadness and depression?

Sadness is a normal emotion that usually fades with time or when circumstances improve. Depression is a medical condition affecting mind and body; the sadness does not lift just because good things happen and persists regardless of circumstances.

Name five ways depression may make a person feel.

Tired even after a full night's sleep; lacking energy or motivation; unable to enjoy usual activities; empty or numb; stuck in negative thoughts that do not go away.

When should persistent sadness or low mood prompt professional help according to the notes?

If it persists for more than two weeks, seek professional help from a doctor or mental health practitioner.

What is grief?

The normal, natural emotional response to a major loss. It is often associated with death but can also occur when someone has a serious long-term illness or terminal diagnosis.

Name four emotions that can form part of grief and explain them.

Great sadness: deep sorrow that comes in waves. Anger: anger at the situation, the person who died or the world. Guilt: wondering if something could have been done differently or feeling guilty when feeling okay. Despair: hopelessness about the future without what was lost.

Do people simply 'get over' grief?

Not necessarily. People learn to live with grief over time. Its intensity often lessens gradually, but it may return at unexpected moments.

When might grief resurface?

Around anniversaries, birthdays, holidays or other reminders.

What is loss?

The harm or distress that comes from losing someone or something significant.

Give examples of loss besides death. The end of a relationship, losing a home, losing health or losing a way of life.

What is the difference between loss and grief?

Loss is the event itself; grief is the emotional response to that event.

What is a crisis?

A sudden, unexpected event that negatively affects life, emotions, behaviour and health. Unlike ongoing challenges, it tends to strike suddenly and demands an immediate response.

Why can failing Grade 9 be described as a crisis in the notes?

It is a single event that may have immediate consequences, such as shame, fear of returning to school, anger at oneself and worry about the future.

Give five other examples of crises.

• Death of a loved one;

• serious accident;

• natural disaster such as a fire or flood;

• family suddenly losing its home or income;

• experiencing violence.

Is a crisis always permanent?

No. Although it can feel impossible to overcome, it is usually temporary. Support from family, friends, teachers and healthcare professionals can help recovery.

What is a cause?

Something that contributes to an experience or condition developing.

What is a risk factor?

Something that increases the possibility that a person may experience a particular problem. A risk factor does not mean the problem will definitely occur.

What is the key difference between an ongoing challenge and a crisis?

A crisis tends to happen suddenly, is unexpected and demands an immediate response; an ongoing challenge may continue over time.

What kinds of support can help someone recover from a crisis?

Support from family, friends, teachers and healthcare professionals.