Coping With Police Brutality News and Discussion

Helpful Mental Health Tips

Many of us may be having trauma symptoms from police brutality news all across the nation.

Psychological trauma is damage to the mind that results from a severely distressing event.

What are symptoms of trauma?

Trauma Symptoms

AnxietyExhaustionMood swingsRage

Trauma Symptoms

Feeling out of touchTrouble sleepingShortness of breathNumbness

Trauma Symptoms

NauseaHigh blood pressureHot and cold flashesFear of dying or going crazy.

Trauma Symptoms

Pounding heartDizzinessNightmares Headaches

Trauma Symptoms

How can you take care of yourself when experiencing trauma?

Self Care

Get outside. Exercise.Drink water. Drink less alcohol and coffee.

Self Care

See yourself as competent.Praise yourself.Find an enjoyable activity to do once a day.

Take a media break from violent TV or social media.

Self Care

Use humor.Express your outrage in writing, dance, art and story.

Name your feelings.Sleep when you can.

Self Care

Say no whenever you can.

Connect with safe people.

Develop a daily routine.Savor simple things.

Self Care

CALL ON COMMUNITY RESOURCES TO HEAL YOU

A church leader A therapist Your doctor Google an anonymous crisis hotline.

Self Care

There is no right or wrong way to respond to a traumatic event.

A Few Reminders

All kinds of emotions are normal.You aren't alone or weak or to blame for your feelings.

A Few Reminders

You are having a normal reaction to an abnormal event.

A Few Reminders

Get help if these symptoms last for more than a month or if you are not connecting with others in a significant way or are having thoughts of hurting yourself or others.

A Few Reminders

You are a survivor; you are a healer. You are needed in this fight. Resources are available to you.

A Few Reminders

Spread the word about accessing mental health resources.