Update September 2017
Like many of my colleagues I have been working with people who were affected by the terrorist attack in Manchester earlier this year. If you feel you need to talk with someone about the experience then it may be worth considering having counselling. Your GP should be able to signpost you to free counselling (though there may be a waiting period) or you can find an independent counsellor to work with.
If you decide you would like to explore working with me then please phone 07985 685038. If I can’t answer then please leave a voicemail and let me know if you would like me to return your call. Alternatively you can email me at JRBirkbeck@Protonmail.com or text on 07985 685038. I am normally able to respond on the same day.
Initial post
Useful guidance has been issued by the Royal College of Psychiatrists that explains what might be experienced after a traumatic incident such as the Manchester Arena bombing on May 22, 2017. The leaflet can be found here.
The Mental Health Organisation MIND has also put together a list of resources and information and these can be found here. These specifically include information about children and young people.
The days, weeks and months after this kind of event can be very hard for people. Trying to keep to a normal regular schedule can be helpful. Spending time with people you feel close to can be reassuring. Talking through events and feelings when you feel ready to do so can help you to make sense of what happened. Be aware that everyone will react in a slightly different way. Be kind to people. Don’t minimise or belittle their feelings if they share them with you.
There is plenty of professional help available if people find they are still struggling after about a month (see the leaflets above).
We will come through this.
If you do need to talk to someone urgently the Samaritans are always available and here are the various ways you can contact them.
Counselling for a better life 