Do You See Yourself in These Experiences?
- Difficulty concentrating/a short attention span
- Uncontrolled anger/aggression
- Feeling isolated/alone
- Feeling out of control
- Negative thoughts
- Emotional withdrawal
- Faking emotions
- Anxiety
You may be experiencing the symptoms of an Operational Stress Injury. If you see yourself in these experiences, the Operational Stress Injury Social Support program might be for you. We have Peer Support Coordinators who will help you understand these symptoms and provide mentorship and support on how to move forward with your ‘new normal.’
Coping Tips and Strategies
General
- Set small goals. If that means all you can do today is take a shower, then do that.
- Schedule your appointments to minimize stress: space them out, or place them on a day when you have someone to go with you.
- Learn strategies to help with symptoms like anxiety in crowds, anger and memory issues.
- Manage expectations, be realistic, and be kind to yourself about the timeline of your journey. Recovery takes time.
- Identify people who can support you. Recovery is often more successful with support.
- Communicate with your family and friends. It is likely they know something is happening and they want to know how to support you.
Crowds
- Determine if there is a less busy time to do the activity.
- Communicate the plan (how long will we stay, where do we meet if we get separated, etc.) to minimize unexpected situations.
- Discuss compromise… (I really want to go to the concert… Is there a smaller venue, do we go 5 minutes after the show has started so that the crowd is seated, do I go alone?)
Lack of intimacy
- Seek outside help from a counsellor.
- Realize you may have to look for new ways to build intimacy.
- Revisit something that you both enjoyed doing together when you first met. **Discuss beforehand and be sure that both of you feel safe doing it. Allow modification.
- Find ways to laugh together.
- Agree to set aside an hour that you spend together (going for a walk, talking about a book, going for a drive to a coffee shop). Identify topics that you are NOT allowed to bring up or refer to, agree not to blame, or do charades in reference to the OSI or related issues.
Sleep/Nightmares
- Minimize caffeine and alcohol.
- Try not to nap during the day.
- Do not use a device with a bright screen in the hour before bed (Smartphone, laptop, etc.).
- Try to avoid subjects that may trigger symptoms before bed (particular TV shows or readings, intense conversations).
- Exercise regularly.
- Practice relaxation exercises.
Memory loss
- Use memory aides, such as lists, post it notes, day timers, smartphones, etc.
- Keep expectations realistic.
- Make To-Do lists short.
- Keep a routine.
- Get adequate rest.
Angry outbursts
- Postpone the conversation/disagreement until later (but don’t avoid it).
- Try to stay calm, use grounding techniques.
- Ask for space if you notice yourself getting upset.
- Remember to take accountability for your actions.
- Keep everyone safe and leave if you need to.
- Try to recognize indicators that you are getting agitated before you lash out (breathing changes, feeling tense etc.).
Some things to watch for
- Negative thinking
- Poor self-care, neglecting your own health and wellness
- Apathy
- Feeling easily overwhelmed
- Physical and emotional exhaustion
- Avoiding activities previously enjoyed
- Anger and resentment
Getting Help
Having an OSI can be difficult. You may avoid family and friends or stop doing things that you once enjoyed. You may feel guilt or frustration because you are struggling with your physical or mental health. Your family may also start avoiding the same things, as they may adapt their behaviours, moods and routines to yours.
There is a community around you that is going through what you are right now. OSISS can help you tap into our community and its compassion, wisdom and experience. We offer both one-on-one and group activities so you can choose the type of support that is best for you. Your first step is to contact an OSISS Coordinator. They will provide hope, acceptance and non-judgement as someone who has walked in your shoes.
OSISS interactions are kept confidential and respectful. Your safety is paramount.
