Coping With Critical Stress | Counseling and Mental Health Services

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Counseling and Mental Health Services

Counseling and Mental Health Services provides a continuum of services to promote positive mental well-being among all USC Students.

On Campus Resource

The diverse team of more than 60 licensed professional clinicians, care coordinators, advocates and prevention educators are here to establish a healthy and resilient student body. All licensed clinicians are faculty of the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Keck School of Medicine of USC. Counseling and Mental Health Services

213-740-9355 (WELL)

bit.ly/USC_CMH

24-Hour Emergency Numbers Dept. of Public Safety (UPC) 213-740-4321 Dept. of Public Safety (HSC) 323-442-1000 Counseling and Mental Health Services 213-740-9355 (WELL)

studenthealth.usc.edu

Coping with Critical Stress You may have experienced a traumatic event or a critical incident. This may bring up strong emotional reactions that can interfere with your ability to function normally now or later on. It is normal for people to have emotional aftershocks when they have experienced a traumatic event. Symptoms of an emotional reaction may last a few days, weeks, months, or longer depending on the severity of the event. Emotional stress can pass more quickly with the support and understanding of loved ones. However, a person may need professional assistance if the event becomes too difficult to handle alone. Receiving help from a counselor is the best resource you can give yourself.

Counseling and Mental Health clinicians are here to help you. Call our 24/7 line: 213-740-9355 (WELL)


Some Signs to Look Out For: Physical

Cognitive

Emotional

Behavioral

Nausea

Confusion

Fear

Withdrawal

Dizziness

Nightmares

Guilt

Headaches

Hypervigilance

Grief

Rapid Heart Rate

Intrusive Images

Intense Anger

Difficulty Breathing

Self-Blame

Anxiety

Exhaustion

Distorted Thinking

Overwhelmed

Alcohol Consumption Drug use Emotional Outbursts Loss or Increase of Appetite Insomnia

It’s hard feeling intense emotions. You are human. Here are some tips to be gentle and patient with yourself. •

Do things that feel good to you. Spend time with others, listen to music, journal, exercise

Focus on healthier foods for balanced energy. Drink plenty of water and eat fruits, vegetables, protein and fiber. Try to avoid processed sugar and caffeine.

Take one step at a time. Make small daily decisions for yourself to feel in control. Keep your everyday routine as normal as possible.

Seek out support if necessary. Dealing with a traumatic event can be overwhelming and counseling support is available to help you navigate through this moment.

Remember that what you are going through does not define who you are. Our professional team of mental health experts are here for you 24/7: 213-740-9355 (WELL).


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