Triggering Events
Manitoba is now experiencing a mass casualty involving a bus collision near the community of Carberry close to the Saskatchewan border. When we experience a triggering reaction, it can bring up recollections, thoughts and feelings that for some feel unsettling and for others are suddenly quite powerful. Despite years of training, education and experience, delayed reactions can be very disruptive. Having reactions to traumatic events is never a sign of weakness, instead, it’s a sign of being human.
If you're noticing a change in your own behaviour, you may find it useful to reach out for support from your peer support team or from mental health practitioners. Here are some suggestions that you may find useful:
Connect with Family and Friends. Don’t isolate yourself, let the people in your group of family/ friends know what is happening and how they can support you.
Monitor your appetite right now. Eat food that is nutritious and tasty, even if it is in smaller amounts. Avoid high caffeine, high sugar, alcohol or other substances that may slow the body's recovery process.
Fitness: Physical activity - 30 minutes a day. Go for a walk, a run, a bike ride or other activity will greatly help the body's reaction to this triggering event.
Do Familiar things that you enjoy. A hobby, a sport, an outdoor activity - all will help to bring you back to a calmer state of mind.
Do what fills your cup. Whether it be a faith-based activity, (prayer or other ceremonies), meditation, mindfulness, or other activities that bring you back to a sense of balance in your own life.
If you notice that you are struggling with the current situation and feel that you're overwhelmed, or have concerns, reach out to Peer Support or Mental Health resources. Talk through the current situation and see if there is more that can be done to support you.
No one is alone in this experience. We are here to help. Please know that anything that triggers a past experience, is worth a discussion.
The Network CISM Team
306-510-2476 / 306-510-CISM