Coping with Trauma, Terrorism, and War
Mental Health Resources
Helping Students Concerned about the Threat of War and Terrorism: A Guide for Faculty and Staff
Terrorist threats and the possibility of war instill feelings of helplessness and fear. Different people react and cope in vastly different ways. A person's natural temperament, social support, prior life experiences, and coping skills combine to trigger that individual's specific reaction. It is important, however, to be aware that even when students do not express verbal concern, they may still be having strong internal reactions.
Dealing with students on a day-to-day basis, faculty and staff are likely to see students in need of assistance. Understanding the potential reactions, the possible interventions, and the resources available to students, faculty and staff, is critical to being able to work effectively with these students.
Possible reactions:- Preoccupation with terrorist incidents and war
- Watching the media frequently
- Increased reactivity to small issues and events
- Increased moodiness and anxiety
- Changes in sleeping and eating patterns
- Strained relationships with loved ones-either increased isolation or irritability
- Increased use of alcohol or drugs
- Increased hostility toward or fear of foreigners
- Listen. Allow students who confide in you to share their experience. Encourage them to confide in their support system.
- When you are discussing class topics that might remind students of the current political climate and threats of violence, be aware that some students might react strongly (even if they do not express this aloud). Try to be sensitive in how you introduce such topics, and be tolerant if some students need to take a break during class.
- Students whose families live far from Buffalo may be especially likely to react strongly to these situations. Far from their support systems, they may rely more extensively on supportive faculty and close friends.
- It is usually beneficial for the person to continue with their usual routine as much as possible. Encourage students to keep up with assignments, classes, and other activities as much as possible. Even so, be aware that some students might need some brief time away.
- If students express hostility toward individuals from specific countries (e.g., Arabic countries), help them appreciate the distinction between the country's leaders and the innocent population. Increased ethnic conflicts in our own country will not ultimately help students feel safer.
- Be aware that strong reactions may come from many sources, including previous experiences of trauma. What seems like an unreasonable response on the outside may be perfectly understandable in the context of that person's life.
- If some students' reactions seem particularly strong, or if the reactions continue over time, make a referral to a professional. Counseling services are available on either an appointment or an emergency walk-in basis. We are located at 120 Richmond Quad in the Ellicott Complex, 645-2720.
- Faculty and staff may also contact Counseling Services (645-2720) for consultation on any mental health issue.
- Be aware that these stressors do not only affect students, but also faculty and staff. Know your Employee Assistance Program resources and mental health benefits. EAP assistance information can be found at http://wings.buffalo.edu/eap/
The Student Wellness Team
Counseling Services is a part of the Student Wellness Team, along with Student Health Services and Wellness Education Services. The Team's shared mission is to provide interdisciplinary, collaborative services that promote the optimal health, wellness, and development of all students.
More information on the Wellness Team can be found at:
www.student-affairs.buffalo.edu/shs/
For information on Counseling Services go:
http://ub-counseling.buffalo.edu
For information about when and how to make a referral to Counseling Services go to:
http://ub-counseling.buffalo.edu/referralguide.php
For self-help information on coping with trauma:
http://ub-counseling.buffalo.edu/trauma.php
The following resources provide additional information about the psychological impact of war or terrorism:
American Psychological Association:
http://helping.apa.org/daily/terrorism.html
http://helping.apa.org/daily/traumaticstress.html
http://helping.apa.org/daily/tassey.html
National Mental Health Association:
http://www.nmha.org/reassurance/anniversary/index.cfm
Adapted from Karen Lese, Ph.D., UC San Diego
