2.01.25 – Coping With Traumatic Events

Coping With Traumatic Events

Saturday, February 1, 2025

A traumatic event is a profoundly distressing experience that can greatly affect a person’s emotional and physical well-being. The crash of PSA/American Eagle Flight 5342 will have a lasting impact on Flight Attendants and the aviation community. It is essential to recognize the trauma and take proactive steps to process and cope with the emotions that arise in its aftermath.

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How to Cope After a Traumatic Event

Acknowledge Your Feelings

Allow yourself to experience emotions without judgment—whether it’s sadness, anger, fear, or grief. Suppressing emotions can prolong distress, so give yourself permission to process them in a healthy way.

Reach Out for Support

You don’t have to go through this alone. Talk to close friends, family, or a therapist about what you’re experiencing. A trained APFA EAP representative is available to listen, offer emotional support, and connect you with resources. Call 833-214-2002 for confidential assistance.

Maintain a Routine

As a Flight Attendant, maintaining a routine can be challenging, but small, consistent habits can provide stability. Aim to:

• Eat three balanced meals a day.
• Get at least 6-7 hours of sleep.
• Engage in regular physical activity.

Incorporate and Practice Calming Activities/Relaxation Techniques

• Deep breathing exercises
• Meditation or mindfulness
• Connecting with your personal spiritual practice
• Listening to calming music
• Gentle movement like stretching or yoga

Limit Alcohol Use

• Avoid using alcohol as a coping mechanism. While it may provide temporary relief, alcohol can ultimately worsen emotional distress and delay healing.

Allow Yourself Time to Heal

• Recovery is a process, and healing takes time. Be patient and compassionate with yourself as you navigate your emotions.

Listen to Your Body

• Pay attention to both physical and emotional signs of stress. Adjust your self-care routine as needed, prioritizing rest and nourishment.

Be Mindful of Triggers

• Certain media coverage or conversations may intensify distress. Consider limiting exposure to news or social media that could trigger painful memories. Develop strategies to manage these triggers in a way that supports your well-being.

Stay Connected

• Talking to loved ones, colleagues, or a professional can provide comfort and perspective. Support from those who understand your experience can be invaluable in the healing process.

Honor and Remember

• Finding a meaningful way to acknowledge those lost can be an important step in healing. Consider attending memorials, writing a tribute, or taking quiet time to reflect on and honor their memory.

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A Message of Support for Our AFA PSA Family

We continue to offer support to those affected by the crash of PSA/American Eagle Flight 5342. Words of support from the aviation community are most appreciated during this difficult time.

Click here to share a message of support with our AFA PSA Siblings

In Solidarity,

Your APFA EAP Committee
[email protected]