Unanticipated events can be extremely upsetting and stressful. People react in different ways to trauma and can experience a wide range of physical and emotional changes that can affect mental health and well-being. It is important to monitor your health and to access the appropriate resources as required.

Know the signs

One in five adult Canadians will experience a mental disorder in their lives.
Family, friends, neighbours or co-workers may be suffering emotionally.
They may not recognize the symptoms.

Know when to ask for help

EMOTIONAL & PSYCHOLOGICAL SYMPTOMS

  • Shock, denial, or disbelief
  • Confusion, difficulty concentrating
  • Anger, irritability, mood swings
  • Anxiety and fear
  • Guilt, shame, self-blame
  • Withdrawing from others
  • Feeling sad or hopeless
  • Feeling disconnected or numb

PHYSICAL SYMPTOMS

  • Insomnia or nightmares
  • Fatigue
  • Being startled easily
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Racing heartbeat
  • Edginess and agitation
  • Aches and pains
  • Muscle tension
  • Loss of appetite

If you or anyone you know is exhibiting the symptoms above, the first thing to do is ask for help.

Mental Health Continuum Model

HEALTHY REACTING INJURED ILL
  • Normal fluctuations in mood
  • Takes things in stride
  • Good sense of humour
  • Consistent performance
  • Normal sleep patterns
  • Physically and socially active
  • Behaving ethically and morally
  • Confident in self and others
  • Limited or no alcohol/gambling
  • Nervousness, irritability
  • Sadness, overwhelmed
  • Displaced sarcasm
  • Procrastination
  • Forgetfulness
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Low energy
  • Muscle tension, headaches
  • Intrusive thoughts
  • Occasional nightmares
  • Decreased social activity
  • Regular alcohol use/gambling
  • Anxiety, anger
  • Pervasive sadness, tearfulness
  • Hopelessness, worthlessness
  • Negative attitude
  • Difficult concentrating
  • Trouble making decisions
  • Decreased performance or workaholic tendencies
  • Restless, disturbed sleep
  • Increased fatigue, aches and pains
  • Recurrent vivid nightmares
  • Recurrent intrusive thoughts/images
  • Avoidance, withdrawal
  • Increased alcohol use, gambling – hard to control
  • Excessive anxiety
  • Panic attacks
  • Easily enraged, aggressive
  • Depressed mood, numb
  • Overt insubordination
  • Cannot concentrate
  • Inability to make decisions
  • Cannot perform duties
  • Cannot fall asleep/stay asleep
  • Constant fatigue, illness
  • Absent from social events
  • Suicidal thoughts/intent
  • Alcohol, gambling, or other addictions
  • Focus on task at hand
  • Break problems into manageable tasks
  • Controlled, deep breathing
  • Nurture a support system
  • Recognize limits; take breaks
  • Get adequate rest, food, exercise
  • Reduce barriers to help-seeking
  • Identify and resolve problems early
  • Example of personal accountability
  • Talk to someone; ask for help
  • Tune into own signs of distress
  • Make self care a priority
  • Get help sooner, not later
  • Maintain social contact; don’t withdraw
  • Follow care recommendations
  • Seek consultation as needed
  • Respect confidentiality
  • Know resources and how to access them