Thursday, January 6, 2011

Psychology behind Chandler mall shooting

Psychology behind Chandler mall shooting

Psychology behind Chandler mall shooting

Posted: 06 Jan 2011 08:41 AM PST

CHANDLER, AZ - The people that experienced Wednesday's Chandler Fashion Center shooting and evacuation are no doubt happy things ended peacefully, but the terror they experienced was very real.

Whether they were evacuated from the mall, holed up for hours inside one of the restaurants or inside the Baja Fresh, where police say Adam Hernandez drew his weapon, this was no doubt one of the scariest experiences of their lives.

Experts say many will experience anxiety, a constant need to look over their shoulder and a fear of going into large public spaces.

Many of these issues are associated with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.

Here are a few ways to help those involved deal with the images and emotions in the aftermath of a traumatic event.

  • Talk about it. Experts say people who deal the best tend to have a good support system, people they can share their experience with.
  • Self monitor. Make note over the next days and week of where you feel the most anxiety and what helps you calm down.
  • Write about it. Getting those thoughts, feelings and fears out on paper can help you move past the event.
  • Distract yourself. Do things you enjoy, get involved in sports and other positive activities to keep your mind busy.

Experts say if you are unable to sleep or the anxiety over the event is unsetting your daily life it's time to seek professional help.
 

Copyright 2011 Scripps Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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