Assisting students and colleagues in response to tragedy at Virginia…

Assisting students and colleagues in response to tragedy at Virginia Tech

In light of the tragedy that has unfolded at Virginia Tech University, Counseling and
Psychological Services would like to offer the University community some information about
typical responses to such tragedies, and information about what kinds of reactions may warrant
seeking additional counseling support.

Typical responses

        Shock and disbelief: Immediately after learning about such a disaster, many people may
        feel numb, or feel like such an event can't quite be real.
        Speculation about what happened and seeking more information, such as listening to or
        watching the news, checking the web for updates, talking to others about what you each
        know or have heard.
        Feeling sadness or anger about the tragedy and discussing this with family, friends, and
        colleagues.
        Wanting to check in with loved ones, even if they are not close to the disaster, or in any
        immediate danger. It is normal to want to touch base with someone you care about.

In the hours and days following such tragedies, the shock begins to wear off, and more feelings
may emerge, such as sadness and anger. It is important to share these feelings with people that
you trust. For some people, the level of feelings or the kinds of questions that emerge may
indicate that additional counseling support would be helpful.

Circumstances or signs that may lead you to seek additional counseling support

        Do you have friends, colleagues, or family members at Virginia Tech or in the
        Blacksburg community?
        Is this event bringing up recollections of previous loss, trauma, or crisis that you or a
        loved one have faced?
        Are you experiencing heightened feelings of anxiety, tension, and fear for your safety,
        insomnia, nightmares, concentration problems, irritability, or rage?
        Are you crying more than usual in response to sadness?
        Are you increasing your use of alcohol/drugs in order to cope?
        Are you wondering what to tell your family about this event or how they will react?

If you are experiencing any of these circumstances, or just wish to talk to a counselor for
additional support, call Counseling and Psychological Services at 740-593-1616; or drop by
Hudson Health Center, 3rd floor, to see a counselor. We have drop-in appointment times to
accommodate people needing support during this difficult time (10am to 1:30pm Monday through
Friday.) Also, please feel free to contact us to consult about any questions you may have.

Ohio University Counseling and Psychological Services
Hudson Health Center, 3rd Floor
(740) 593-1616