Bystander Advice
Wellbeing Support After Traumatic Incidents
Witnessing a traumatic event can have a significant emotional and psychological impact. Traumatic stress may develop following such experiences and can present in many ways, including feelings of guilt, anxiety, or depression.
Some bystanders may experience symptoms similar to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), such as intrusive thoughts, distressing memories, nightmares, or feelings of detachment. If you are struggling after witnessing a traumatic event, it is important to seek support and professional help.
Bystanders may experience a range of emotional and psychological responses, including:
- Feelings of guilt, helplessness, or hopelessness
- Anxiety, stress, or low mood
- Difficulty concentrating or sleeping
- Intrusive memories, flashbacks, or nightmares
- Feeling emotionally numb or disconnected
- Changes in how you view the world, yourself, or your sense of meaning
Bystander Guilt
A common response is bystander guilt, where individuals feel distressed about what happened or wish they had acted differently. These feelings are a natural reaction to trauma and do not reflect personal failure.
PTSD-like Symptoms
In some cases, witnessing a traumatic event can lead to PTSD-like symptoms, including intrusive thoughts, avoidance behaviours, heightened alertness, or emotional withdrawal. Early support can help reduce the impact of these symptoms.
Seeking Support
If you are affected by a traumatic incident, reaching out for support can make a significant difference. This may include:
- Talking with a therapist or counsellor
- Joining a peer or support group
- Speaking with a trusted friend, family member, or colleague
Mental Health Professionals
Mental health professionals can help assess your symptoms, offer emotional support, and recommend appropriate treatment options, such as talking therapies or medication where appropriate.
NHS Support
NHS Inform Scotland provides guidance and resources to help people cope after traumatic events. Further information is available on their website, along with additional support links listed below. https://www.nhsinform.scot
Useful Links to Organisations Providing Support
Mental Health Support Services
Men’s Peer to Peer Support Service
Suicide Prevention and Support Services
Support Services for Persons Under 35
Bereavement Service
Support Services for Young People
Mental Health Support Service
Dementia Specialist Support
