Counseling Center offers support and advice
In order to foster support among those at Utah State University, Mary E. Doty, director of the USU Counseling Center, provided information about dealing with a tragedy to the university community.
She defines a critical incident as an event or series of events falling outside the realm of “normal” human experience in some way. Natural and man-made disasters, accidents, interpersonal victimization and other unexpected death, or near death events fall in this category.
Other factors that contribute to the critical nature of the incident are proximity, degree of life threat or loss, suddenness of the event, length of impact, potential for recurrence, perceived role in the incident and amount of community disruption.
There may be a loss of widely-held beliefs such as, “I am safe in the world,” she said.
Doty described some things that can be done to help one cope with a critical incident.
• Recognize when you are feeling overly stressed.
• Talk about what troubles you.
• Keep to as much of your routine as realistically possible.
• Practice a systematic, drug-free method of relaxation.
• Get regular physical exercise.
• Maintain healthy nutrition.
• Get enough sleep.
• Get organized.
• Recognize and accept limits.
• Take time to get away.
When offering support to individuals affected by critical incidences, there are a few guidelines to keep in mind.
First, be a good listener. Allow the person to vent thoughts and feelings.
Second, communicate that it is normal to have reactions to critical events.
Third, give supportive feedback. Suspend any critical, judgmental, or questioning thoughts.
Fourth, be sure you take time to take care of yourself. It can be draining to give aid and comfort to others.
The USU Counseling Center staff is available to consult with students, faculty and staff regarding general or specific concerns about individuals or groups, how to deal with related issues that arise in classes and other situations that might benefit from some intervention.
The center is located in Room 306 of the Taggart Student Center. Its telephone number is 797-1012.