Psychologists play a crucial role in helping both adults and children who have experienced shock or trauma, such as being victims of violent attacks like the Ukrainian civilians facing Russian missile attacks. Here are some ways psychologists can provide support:
Psychological First Aid: Psychologists can provide immediate assistance to individuals in the aftermath of a traumatic event. Psychological first aid involves offering a compassionate and supportive presence, helping people feel safe, and providing basic coping strategies to manage distress.
Trauma-Informed Therapy: Psychologists can offer evidence-based trauma-focused therapies, such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), or Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). These therapies help individuals process and cope with traumatic memories.
Counseling and Therapy: Psychologists can provide ongoing counseling to help individuals and families process their emotions, thoughts, and reactions related to the traumatic event. This can support their healing and help them develop healthy coping mechanisms.
Crisis Intervention: During the immediate aftermath of a traumatic event, psychologists can offer crisis intervention services to provide emotional support and stabilize individuals in distress.
Psychoeducation: Psychologists can educate survivors and their families about trauma reactions, grief, and coping strategies, which can help normalize their experiences and reduce feelings of isolation.
Support Groups: Group therapy or support groups can be beneficial for survivors of similar traumatic events. They provide a safe space for sharing experiences, reducing isolation, and promoting healing through shared understanding.
Emotional Regulation Techniques: Psychologists can teach techniques to manage overwhelming emotions, such as deep breathing exercises, grounding techniques, and mindfulness practices.
Building Resilience: Psychologists can work with individuals to strengthen their resilience, helping them develop coping skills to deal with adversity and stress.
Regarding hugs specifically, physical touch like hugs can have a positive impact on some individuals in distress. Hugging can release oxytocin, a hormone that promotes feelings of comfort and connection. However, it's essential to recognize that not everyone may feel comfortable with physical touch, especially immediately after a traumatic event. It's crucial to respect individuals' boundaries and preferences for physical contact, as some survivors might find it triggering or overwhelming.
Ultimately, the support provided by psychologists is individualized and may vary depending on the needs and preferences of the person seeking help. The goal is to create a safe and supportive environment that empowers survivors to process their experiences and begin the healing process.