Coach A Passengers: Distinctive Reactions
Having met a number of Coach A passengers now I have observed some distinctive features in their reactions that I thought were worth sharing, especially so that those in Coach A (and possibly some in Coach B1) know they are not alone. Do let us know if these observations ring true.
This carriage was the least damaged and people got out relatively unscathed. The piece I wrote about Survivor Guilt is perhaps most relevant to them and it is worth remembering that even though the end result was not as bad for them as others, they still experienced that dreadful first moment of the sudden braking at speed and the jolts. At this point most people would have experienced a real and/or perceived THREAT TO LIFE, security and the belief that if you get on a train you will get off safely at your destination. This type of threat, not just the reality of the end result, is enough to trigger traumatic stress reactions. They were also in a position to take in the horror of the sights and sounds of the aftermath of the crash - the raw material for flash-backs and persistent live images that can set off emotions any time.
The common features are:
- Feeling they should not be affected or shouldn't be getting help. They cannot believe the strength or persistence of their own reactions.
- Not seeking legal advice or making a claim for compensation - or delaying doing so until they realise some things don't always get better by themselves and that any trauma repercussions can have a cost and compensation is about recompense for loss not making easy money.
- Problems from other people's reactions because they don't understand why they are affected as much or for as long as they are.
- Feeling that they are different from other passengers with fears that they may not be accepted by those who were more seriously affected.
- Isolation because of not wanting to make a fuss or because of fears of being judged.
- Very rapid return to work with regrets later that they didn't take time to rest physically and gather their thoughts immediately after the crash.
The message is: You are all part of the one train crash community. Everyone has the right to their own experience and reactions. You may not need the same or as much help as others but everyone has the right to personal support and compensation (don't worry - insurers won't pay more than they feel is just!). It is the significance of the trauma to you and other personal factors that determines nature of the impact and recovery, NOT just the degree of visible impact. If you are less affected than others, you have a vital role because you have the capactiy to support other survivors AND the understanding of being in the crash.
In past disasters it has often taken years for less affected surivivors and witnesses to seek help or make connection with support networks and it often means they take longer to deal with the incident.
How can we help Coach A and others suffering surivor guilt feel connected as equal members (with diverse reactions and issues) of this community????