Advice from Counseling Services

April 17, 2007

Trinity students-- 

Our thoughts are with the students, parents, faculty, and staff of the Virginia Tech University community. 

We at Trinity University are touched by this tragedy.  Most of us feel some connection with Virginia Tech because we share common ground as members of a university community.  Some of us have friends who currently work or study there.  In addition, this national trauma reminds some of us of our own personal history of trauma. 

Following a traumatic event, even one that happens far away, each of us may experience some variation of a stress reaction.  For some, the response is immediate; for others, a stress reaction may be delayed for days, weeks, or months.  A stress response to such an overwhelming event is normal and may be mild, moderate, or severe.  The nature and severity of the reaction varies with each individual.  Symptoms might include difficulty concentrating, anxiety or depression, feelings of numbness, loss of appetite, sleep difficulties, nightmares, or feeling helpless.  Generally, these symptoms abate with time. 

We encourage each of you to take care of yourself in the coming days and weeks as more information emerges about what happened at Virginia Tech.  In particular, please:

• Talk with others whom you trust about your reactions
• Eat well, exercise, and rest as well as you can
• Limit the amount of media coverage you watch if you feel overwhelmed by the news
• Recognize that your reactions are normal and that the symptoms will improve with time.

You’ll find more detailed information in this on-line publication from the American Psychological Association: http://www.apahelpcenter.org/articles/article.php?id=22

As always, support is available for Trinity students who feel the need to discuss their reactions with a counselor.  You can talk confidentially with a counselor at Counseling Services, which is located in Suite 215 of the Coates University Center, located above the bookstore.  Walk-in hours are available Monday-Friday between 3:00 and 4:30 on a first-come, first seen basis.  If you prefer to make an appointment, visit the office or call 999-7411. 

Take care of yourselves and support one another. 

© 2007 Trinity University