Aviation is a dynamic and rewarding calling but it can also, on rare occasions, expose our members to dangerous and traumatic experiences. This year there were some tragic events in our General Aviation sector. When these incidents occur it is important more than ever to look after each other and ourselves. Our Membership Assistance Program (MAP) Contract Manager, Laura Fildes, an experienced occupational psychologist, provided the following primer for our membership in how trauma might present itself after a traumatic incident, and how to get support. If you have any questions about Laura’s article, or any of the AFAP welfare services and how they work, speak with Cate Larkins, our AFAP Welfare Coordinator.
A trauma can be defined as an event outside the usual realm of human experience that is markedly distressing (e.g. evokes reactions of intense fear, helplessness, horror etc.). Reactions to trauma are different and individual for everyone. These reactions are normal responses by the body and brain as they try to make sense of what has happened.
Symptoms can include:
Symptoms should decrease over time, and generally cease between one to three weeks. If symptoms continue or are significantly impacting your functioning, a psychological intervention may be warranted. Psychological intervention can help process the memory so that it is not associated with the above symptoms. You may always experience emotion when remembering the event, but not with the intensity you did during the event or immediately afterwards. If the intensity of emotion remains, you experience intrusive thoughts and flashbacks, or you feel like you just can’t get past the event, then you need to seek professional assistance.
Recovery following trauma is also individual, and it is vital that the individual is supported to cope in his or her own way. Some people may want to talk about the event, others may want some time alone to process – it is important that individuals are supported to do what they feel they need to following a traumatic event. Basic self-care is important including eating regularly, sleeping and resting, returning to a normal routine as soon as possible, and seeking help if needed.
Recovery for individuals following a trauma can depend on several factors, some of which include: the degree of the life threat, the proximity to the incident, your coping style, social support, your personality, and prior experiences. If you or your colleagues are experiencing ongoing symptoms that are affecting your ability to do day-to-day tasks, it is advisable to seek professional assistance. Member Assistance Program (MAP) services can be of assistance here. MAP services through the AFAP offer free and confidential face-to-face or telephone counselling appointments to help with emotional situations or traumatic workplace incidents. There are highly effective, evidence based treatments for trauma, and these can be offered through the MAP.
Initial reactions to trauma are normal. Everyone’s response to trauma is individual to them. Taking care of yourself and others facilitates recovery, and talking through your symptoms or the event with a qualified professional can be an important element of this self-care. Recovery can be a marathon not a sprint so if you are concerned for a colleague, even some weeks later, remember to ask if they are okay.
You do not need to be in crisis (or insane) to access MAP services. The MAP is there for normal everyday people, with normal everyday issues (and the PeopleSense psychologists are quite normal too!). You can contact MAP services on 1300 307 912.
Laura Fildes
Clinical Psychologist │ PeopleSense Principal Consultant (VIC and ACT)