During difficult times, stress and panic can overcome us.  Here are some steps you can take to retain your sanity.

• Maintain as normal schedule as possible, but don’t over do it; cut out unnecessary “busyness” and don’t take on new projects.
• Allow time for activities that make you happy.
• Acknowledge that you may be operating below your normal level for a while.
• Structure your time even more carefully than usual – it’s normal to forget things when you are under stress.
• Keep list and double-check any important work.
• Maintain control where you can – make small decisions even if you feel like the issue is unimportant, or you don’t care (it is important to maintain control in some areas of your life).
• Spend time with others, even though it may be difficult at first – it’s easy to withdraw when you’re hurt, but now you need the company of others.
• Establish support systems: family, friends, places of worship, school, co-workers, etc.
• Be aware that children are often unable to express their thoughts or feelings verbally; often they will act them out.
• Let your children know that you are there to listen if they want to talk – be honest with them about your own thoughts and feelings.
• Avoid self-controlled substances may reduce the perception of stress, but they do not minimize anxiety.
• Find help; if you feel as though you are alone and no one can help, don’t let your feelings of panic, anger, and loneliness build.
• Recognize and deal with your stress – counseling or a support group can help.
• Give yourself time – you may feel better for a while, and then have a “relapse”.  This is normal; allow plenty of time to adjust to the new realities you must face.

Content provided by FEI Behavioral Health Employee Assistance and Crisis Management Program – The Critical Incident Response