Immediate reactions (24 hours)
These behaviors are “normal” responses to a traumatic event, but should be brought to the attention of a counselor:
§ Excessive, uncontrollable crying
§ Refusal to acknowledge/discuss the event
§ Intense anger, aggression, destruction of property
§ Self-mutilation (cutting, scratching, excessive nail biting, etc.)
§ Inability to focus, excessive daydreaming
§ Physical somaticization (headaches, nausea, stomach aches, hyper- or hypo-active)
§ Anticipation of re-connection with the deceased (e.g. calling them and expecting them to pick up the phone, waiting for them to call, etc.)
On-going symptoms (after 24 hours)
These behaviors are an indication that a student might be having particular difficulty and should be referred to a counselor immediately:
§ Continuation of any of the above behaviors
§ Confused or distorted thinking
§ Complete absence of emotion
§ Persistent anxiety
§ Preoccupation with death
§ Talk of reunion with the deceased
§ Refusal to talk about the event
§ Changes in eating patterns (less or more)
§ Changes in sleep patterns (less or more)
§ Suicidal thoughts