A Message from USC Student Counseling Services

Published

Our thoughts and prayers are with our UCLA colleagues and students with the recent shootings at UCLA. Although the details are not fully known at this time, you or others you know may be wanting or needing support in response to this tragic event. We at SCS are here to help.

Please contact Student Health Services at (213) 740-WELL (9355) to make an appointment for yourself or a group that you belong to who may want to meet with a professional counselor. 

Common Responses to Traumatic Events

Although trauma affects people differently, there are some common reactions that you may experience. These signs and symptoms may begin immediately, or you may feel fine for a couple of days or even weeks, then suddenly be hit with a reaction. The important thing to remember is that these reactions are quite normal. Although it may feel abnormal, it is very normal for people to experience emotional “aftershocks” following a traumatic event.

Some common responses to traumatic events are:

PHYSICAL REACTIONS

·      Insomnia

·      Fatigue

·      Hyperactivity

·      Pains in the neck or back

·      Headaches

·      Heart palpitations or pains the chest*

·      Dizzy spells*

·      Appetite changes

* If symptoms persist, see a physician.

 COGNITIVE/EMOTIONAL REACTIONS

·      Flashbacks or “reliving” the event

·      Jumpiness; tendency to startle

·      Irritability

·      Anger

·      Feelings of anxiety or helplessness

·      Feeling vulnerable

·      Feeling overwhelmed

·      Low motivation, listlessness
EFFECTS ON PRODUCTIVITY

·      Inability to concentrate

·      Increased incidence of errors

·      Memory lapses

·      Increased absenteeism

·      Tendency to overwork/underwork

Usually, the signs and symptoms of trauma will lessen with time. If you are concerned about your reaction, note the specific symptoms that worry you. For each symptom, note the:

  • Duration – Normally, trauma reactions will grow less intense and disappear within a few weeks.
  • Intensity – If the reaction interferes with your ability to carry on your life normally, you may want to seek help.

Support is available at USC Student Counseling Services at (213) 740-WELL (9355) located in the Engemann Student Health Center, Suite #304

On-call Counselor is available by walk-in or phone M-F 8:30 to 5pm for urgent appointments.