How do I recognize stress

People can react to stressful situations in different ways. If you have experienced some kind of trauma, it is quite normal that you react differently than before. You might have become more impatient or you feel sad. Perhaps, you are very shocked by what happened. It all depends on how you felt about before the event, but also on the reaction of people in your surroundings.

Various reactions may occur, such as:

• Crying spells
• Heightened startle response
• Fatigue and sleeping disorders
• Loss of patience and concentration
• Memory problems
• Avoidance of places that trigger memories
• Feelings of guilt or shame

Most people will try to get on with their lives after a traumatic event, but if it doesn't work, you may seek the assistance of Victim Support or contact your GP.