My heart goes out to everyone affected by the Virginia Tech Tragedy. I have started this Blog in the shadows of this tragedy. First, let’s take a deep breath and express our deepest sorrow and condolences to those who grieve those who were murdered and hospitalized. Second, we need to make sure that those most affected -- include the wounded and the grieving -- receive the most effective, evidence-based assistance that is available as soon as possible. Third, those most affected deserve to be protected from any and all exposure to “help” that is iatrogenic: Help that may cause more harm; that does not pass the “first do no harm” test. Fourth, those affected because of their compassion, empathy, and concern for the “victims” must be considered and respected. These people are valuable resources. Often, however, these “secondary victims” suffer in silence and need the love an attention of others to enable them to continue their support. Otherwise, they are unable to continue their support at a time that it is vitally needed for those most affected.
I will share what I know about human reactions to traumatic events. This is a tragedy that provides opportunities to learn about human responses to traumatic events – both immediate and long term. Post your questions here and I will answer them. Post your own personal experiences and what you would like to know or what you have learned so far from them.
Charles R. Figley, Ph.D.
http://mailer.fsu.edu/~cfigley/
