After a road accident, a fire, a sudden loss, or a violent scene — many people go through what is called an acute stress reaction. It is not weakness and not a character flaw — it is a normal brain's response to an abnormal event.

In short — what to do

  1. Replaying scenes of the event, and recurring nightmares.
  2. Tension, startling at sounds, poor sleep and concentration.
  3. Emotional numbness or tears without warning, or survivor's guilt: "why did I live?".
  4. Avoiding the place, or any talk of the event.

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Safety, warmth and the closeness of loved ones: the first treatment after a hard event
Safety, warmth and the closeness of loved ones: the first treatment after a hard event
The full details

What is normal in the first days?

  • Replaying scenes of the event, and recurring nightmares.
  • Tension, startling at sounds, poor sleep and concentration.
  • Emotional numbness or tears without warning, or survivor's guilt: "why did I live?".
  • Avoiding the place, or any talk of the event.

This wave fades gradually over days to weeks in most people — with sleep, safety, and the closeness of loved ones.

Helping yourself or someone close

  • Return to your simple daily routine as soon as possible — routine is medicine.
  • Talk about the event when YOU want to, and never force anyone to "vent" before they are ready.
  • Cut down on repeated news and images of the event.
  • Avoid "treating" it with excess caffeine or sedatives without a doctor.

Seek specialist assessment

  • Symptoms continue at the same intensity beyond one month — this may be the start of PTSD, and early treatment works.
  • Any thoughts of self-harm, at any time — an immediate emergency.
  • Being unable to work, care for children, or leave the house.
  • Growing reliance on sedatives or anything else to sleep or forget.

Worth knowing

Your children recover as much as they see you steady — don't lie to them ("nothing happened"); simplify the truth and anchor safety: "something frightening happened and it is over, and we are safe together now".

This content is for general health education only and is not medical advice. Always seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional. In an emergency, call 998.

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