Module 2 -Stress and Coping

Module 2 Stress and Coping 2

Into every life a little rain must fall …..

But what happens when there is a flood?

Module 2 Stress and Coping 3

Learning Objectives

Use the terminology of stress and coping Describe how people react to and cope with

stress Describe common reactions to loss and grief Employ guidelines for the provision of

psychological support

Module 2 Stress and Coping 4

Stress

A state of physical and/or psychological arousal

Often brought about by a perceived threat or challenge

May be expressed differently by different cultures

Module 2 Stress and Coping 5

Stress Reaction Phases

1. Acute phase

2. Reaction phase

3. Repair phase

4. Reorientation phase

Module 2 Stress and Coping 6

Acute Phase Lasts minutes, hours or days “Fight or flight” response: preparation for physical

activity Narrowing of focus: decreases ability to think

properly Emotional reactions: disbelief/consternation/fear/grief Rigid behavior: irritability, anger, etc. affects

communication Panic is rare but if present, requires immediate

attention

Module 2 Stress and Coping 7

Reaction Phase

Lasts one to six weeks Delayed reactions: previously repressed

or denied feelings will surface May be overwhelming, bringing feelings

of powerlessness

Module 2 Stress and Coping 8

Reaction Phase: Characteristic reactions: Fear of returning to the site of the event Dreams or nightmares Anxiety, restlessness, insomnia Muscular tension, tremors and exaggerated

startle response Increased irritability and isolation, depression Disturbing thoughts about survival, relief, guilt

and grief Perceived images of how others suffered in the

disaster, i.e. how they died, how they injured

Module 2 Stress and Coping 9

Repair Phase

Lasts one to six months Reactions are less intense, and not so

overwhelming• Feelings of hurt continue, but are more

manageable

• Renewed interest in everyday life

• Makes plans for the future

Module 2 Stress and Coping 10

Reorientation Phase

Approximately six months after a distressing event and continuing

Heightened stress reactions are substantially reduced• Grief reaction may not be resolved but is

accepted

• Most reactions will diminish gradually Assessing ongoing needs is important

Module 2 Stress and Coping 11

Coping with Stress

Coping is a way to prevent, delay, avoid, or manage stress

Coping mechanism categories:• Changing the source of stress

• Changing the view of the situation

• Tolerating the stressor until it passes or becomes less troublesome

Module 2 Stress and Coping 12

Examples of Coping

Seeking help from others or offering to help others

Using natural support systems Talking about their experiences and trying to

make sense of what happened Hiding until the danger has passed Seeking information about the welfare of loved

ones Gathering remaining belongings

Module 2 Stress and Coping 13

Examples of Coping (cont.)

Beginning to repair the damage Burying or cremating the dead Following religious or cultural practices Setting goals and making plans Using defenses like denial Remaining fearful and alert to further danger Thinking long and hard about the event

Module 2 Stress and Coping 14

Activity # 6 – What if…

Activity: Break into pairs. Imagine that there is flood in your community. Your family's income is based on farming, and you lose all your crops in the flood.

Take 5 minutes to discuss three (or more) actions, thoughts, beliefs, personal characteristics or strengths or aspects of your culture that would help you to cope with the situation.

Module 2 Stress and Coping 15

Loss and Grief Loss is a common theme in most disaster

settings Common reactions to loss:

• Denial, numbness or shock

• Bargaining

• Depression

• Anger

• Acceptance

• Reorientation

Module 2 Stress and Coping 16

Loss and Grief – Signs of Trouble

Avoiding or minimizing emotions Using alcohol or drugs to self-medicate Using work or other distractions to avoid

feelings Hostility and aggression toward others

Module 2 Stress and Coping 17

Activity # 7 – Another point of view Activity: Break into small groups of 3-4 people & discuss

the situations and possible emotional responses of the following people:• A widow. Your home burned down, the cause is not yet

determined.

• A parent. Your home burned down and you have lost all your work tools in the fire.

• A teenager. Your home burned down and your parents were injured in the fire while rescuing you and your sister.

• A recent immigrant to this country. Your home has burned down and it brings back memories of war in your homeland.

Module 2 Stress and Coping 18

Emotional Numbness or Extreme Agitation

Immediate attention is needed Possible referral for professional care When referring:

• Inform the person of your intention

• Recognize that the referral may cause a negative reaction

Module 2 Stress and Coping 19

Guiding Principles in Providing Psychological Support

First protect from danger Focus on physical and material care Be direct, active and remain calm Focus on the “here and now” situation Provide accurate information about the

situation Assist with mobilization of resources

Module 2 Stress and Coping 20

Guiding Principles in Providing Psychological Support (cont)

Do not give false assurances Recognize the importance of taking action Reunite with family members Provide and ensure emotional support Focus on strengths and resilience Encourage self-reliance Respect feelings and cultures of others

Module 2 Stress and Coping 21

Activity # 8 – Guiding Principles

Give an example of something specific you could say or do in each of the previously discussed principles.

Module 2 Stress and Coping 22

Crisis Intervention

Observe safe practices by showing concern for your own safety

Remain calm and appear relaxed, confident and non-threatening

Module 2 Stress and Coping 23

Crisis Intervention Steps

1. Assess the situation

2. Establish rapport

3. Identify the main problem (s)

4. Deal with feelings and emotions

5. Generate and explore alternative coping strategies

6. Formulate an action plan

7. Follow up