As you read through this list understand that it is normal to experience some of these signs and symptoms. These signs and symptoms should diminish over time but sometimes the traumatic event is so painful that professional assistance from a counselor may be necessary. This does not imply craziness or weakness. It simply indicates that the particular event is just too powerful for a person to manage by themselves.

Additional Links

- When to Reach Out
- theLINK Newsletter
- Children's Services
- CSU Locations
- Things To Help You Cope
- Helping America Cope book
- Family Resource Manual
- Important Phone Numbers
- Family Assistance Unit
- Back to CSU Homepage

Some Signs And Signals To Look Out For In ADULTS:

• Fear, disbelief suspicion, anger, anxiety, or apathy
• Short temper, moodiness, and irritability
• Confusion, numbness, and flashbacks
• Difficulty in making decisions
• Excessive helpfulness to other disaster victims
• Loss of appetite
• Crying for no apparent reason
• Increased effects from allergies, colds, and flu
• Rejecting or feeling disappointment with outside help
• Isolation from family, friends, and social activities

Some Signs And Signals To Look Out For In CHILDREN:

• Constant headaches and stomach aches
• Reluctance to go to bed or sleep alone ever
• Insomnia and recurring nightmares
• Withdrawal from family and friends
• Fantasies that nothing has happened
• Temper tantrums and/or crying constantly
• Shortened attention span
• plummeting school performance and/or refusal to attend school
• Refusal to eat
• Drug and alcohol abuse by older children