Recognising acute distress and danger signs

Not everyone who appears calm is fine, and not everyone who cries is in danger. Reading the situation accurately determines the type of response needed.

Reactions to psychological trauma are varied: some people cry intensely, some freeze in complete silence, some laugh inappropriately, some act as if nothing happened. All of this is normal in the short term — and not in itself an indicator of danger. Danger signs requiring immediate referral to a specialist: thoughts of harming oneself or others, complete disconnection from reality (does not know where they are or what happened), violence or threats, and complete inability to meet basic needs due to psychological state.

Signs requiring immediate referral

Speaking about self-harm or suicide. Hallucinations or delusions. Violence directed toward others. Complete disconnection from reality. Excessive alcohol or medication use as a trauma response.

Question 3

A person who went through a difficult incident is laughing in a way that does not fit the situation. Is this concerning?

Question 4

A person who experienced a traumatic incident says: "Nothing means anything. My life is over." How do you respond?