Dealing with trauma

In a major event, the Incident/Crisis Management Team (IMT/CMT) will mobilise University support agencies to assist those who were on the scene, and the police may also refer those most affected to Victim Support. 

However, there are still instances where people 'fall through the cracks' or who fall outside the control or scope of the IMT/CMT.

There is no shame or stigma in asking for help. 

After a traumatic event, it is important to reflect on your feelings. 

If you feel distressed, or are experiencing intense emotions, you should seek assistance without delay.

You may also need assistance if you or others notice changes in your:

• Physical self — Perspiring, shaking, fatigue, sleep patterns etc
• Emotional self — Tearfulness, anxiety, anger, irritability, mood swings etc
• Behaviour — Social withdrawal, poor self-care, neediness, absenteeism etc
• Thinking — Confused, hopeless/helpless, thoughts about self-harm, self-blaming etc.

The University can offer help from Monday to Friday through the Staff Service Centre or the Student Health and Counselling Service.

Staff Service Centre
Phone: 923 6000 ext 86000
Open: Monday to Friday 7.30am-6pm

Student Health and Counselling Service
Phone: 923 7681
Open: Monday to Friday 8.30am-5.30pm

Staff can also contact (in confidence) the Employee Assistance Programme.

Employee Assistance Programme
Phone: 358 2110
Email: auckland@eapservices.co.nz

Other useful agencies that offer 24 hours a day assistance are:

• Lifeline 0800 543 354 
• Youthline 0800 376 633 
• Alcohol and drug helpline 0800 787 797 

Useful information on coping with stress, anxiety and depression can be found at the University's website CALM.

More advice: Emergency counselling information.