When a Death Affects Me and My Colleagues

These principles and resources will help you take care of yourself and your colleagues immediately after a death, whether it occurs during an attempted rescue or under any circumstances that directly impact you.

• Do your part to ensure that all interactions and support are trauma-informed.
• Apply proven practices such as promoting safety, calm, connectedness, hope, and self-efficacy (personal empowerment).
• If you are at the scene of the death, do your part to acknowledge the gravity of what has happened.
• Employ coping tactics, such as normalizing reactions, stepping away from the scene, breathing mindfully, scanning your body, visualizing a safe place, or practicing affirmative self-talk.
• Engage in self-help activities that have short-term and long-term benefits, such as those recommended by Riverside Trauma Center and the National Center for PTSD.
• Make meaningful connections with colleagues and others who are able to share in a safe, mutually helpful way about the effects fatalities have on you.
• Seek professional assistance and support, including clinical supervision if it is available to you.