Survivors guilt is a type of self guilt that we sometimes experience after a traumatic event. It is a symptom of PTSD but can be experienced in the absence of a PTSD diagnosis.
The extent and severity can vary from person to person and symptoms can be both psychological (feelings of guilt, nightmares, flashbacks, irritability, helplessness, lack of motivation) and physical (numbness, difficulty sleeping, racing heart, stomach aches) /2
While not everyone feels survivor’s guilt, it is not uncommon after experiencing some type of trauma. And while it can be quite common, this does not mean that it is not serious or that it does not require some sort of intervention or treatment. /3
a) Remember that these feelings are normal and common: Experiencing guilt doesn’t mean that you’re guilty of doing anything wrong. It’s OK to feel happy about your own luck while at the same time mourning the fate of others. /5
b) Focus on the outside factors that led to an event: Shifting your focus on the external variables that created the situation can help you let go of the self-blame that contributes to feelings of guilt. /6
c) Allow yourself to grieve: It is important to acknowledge the people who were lost and allow yourself to mourn. Give yourself time and take things at your own pace. /7
d) Do something positive: Whether it is for yourself or for others, take those feelings that direct them toward making a change in the world. Sometimes just doing simple things for another person can help alleviate feelings of guilt. /8
e) Practice self-forgiveness: Even if your actions were responsible for harm to another person, learning how to forgive yourself can help you move forward and regain a positive outlook. /9
Survivor’s guilt can feel overwhelming at times, but it's not uncommon to feel this way after you've survived a traumatic event. It's important to acknowledge your guilt & get help if these feelings become too difficult to manage on your own. We're just a DM away. #SurvivingGuilt
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Oftentimes, we don't know what to say to someone grieving. The truth is, when you're not in someone's shoes, you can't tell them how to walk in those shoes.
If you know someone who has died by suicide, be aware that their family members or friends might see your post about their loved one’s death. /2 #chatsafe#ProjectCovidNg
They are likely to be grieving and struggling with a range of intense feelings, so it’s important to be sensitive and be careful with the language you use. /3 #chatsafe#ProjectCovidNg
All friends joke around with each other, but sometimes it’s hard to tell if someone is just having fun or trying to hurt you, especially online. Sometimes they’ll laugh it off with a “just kidding,” or “don’t take it so seriously.” #CyberBullying#ProjectCovidNg /2
But if you feel hurt or think others are laughing at you instead of with you, then the joke has gone too far. If it continues even after you’ve asked the person to stop and you are still feeling upset about it, then this could be bullying. #CyberBullying#ProjectCovidNg /3
These past few weeks have been tough for everyone as evidenced by an increase of over 70% in the number of people reaching out to us for help with their mental health needs. #ProjectCovidNg /1
Because of this & as part of our mental health response to the ongoing pandemic, we have created a platform that caters to all your needs by providing a wide variety of activities, resources, & entertainment to help you maintain optimal wellness. Visit project-covid.ng /2
The Resource Hub collates helpful information from various recommended sources on ways in which you can take care of your mental health and psychological wellbeing during this difficult period. Check it out here - project-covid.ng/resource-hub/#ProjectCovidNg /3