Some people experience recurrent and ongoing recollections of a trauma, which can obviously lead to distress. These intrusive thoughts can be triggered by things you see, things you hear, things you smell, things you taste, and things you feel. Sometimes the intrusive thoughts seem so real that you feel that you are reliving the traumatic event. Because you are always anticipating the next intrusion, you may be hypervigilant and easily aroused. On the other hand, you may have found ways to avoid feeling anything at all. Trauma victims/survivors who consistently experience all of these symptoms for at least one month or longer may be suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). PTSD is an anxiety disorder that is diagnosed by mental health professionals. If you believe you may be suffering from PTSD it is important to seek professional help as PTSD is treatable with a combination of therapies.

Understanding the Trauma: The world is forever changed when someone experiences a trauma. Safety, security, predictability, and sense of control are all distorted. In order to regain a more accurate perspective of the world around you, it is helpful to work toward an understanding of the crash. This search for meaning involves acknowledging your trauma and asking questions. At times there are no answers but it is nonetheless important to get answers to those you can. Asking specific questions about the crash and obtaining a copy of the crash report are ways to begin.

HOW TO COPE:

The methods of coping you choose to employ after your crash can be either productive or self-defeating. Dealing with physical changes and emotional pain may make you feel like you are on a roller coaster ride with many highs and lows. Coping is an attempt to adapt new circumstances into existing life; you may try a variety of means to achieve this, some that work and others that do not. Despite the hurdles most people recover from their burn injuries and adapt well.

Tips for the Burn Trauma Victim/Survivor:

  - Take things one day at a time. Set simple goals and develop a daily routine. Learn to accept responsibility for your own physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual healing. Allow others to help you as you learn.

  - Follow the instructions of your doctors and therapists to insure proper rehabilitation. Attend regularly scheduled medical appointments for continued therapies and follow-up.

  - Keep the lines of communication open between friends and family. Tell them how you are feeling and what you are thinking. Remember that they are hurting, too.