When someone you care about has experienced a terrorist attack, knowing how to help them can feel overwhelming. People respond to traumatic events in different ways - some may want to talk, others may withdraw, and many will experience emotions such as fear, anger, sadness or confusion.
How you can help
- Understand their needs: everyone’s journey is different and your friend or family member might need different things at different times.
- Be supportive: having conversations, listening carefully and signposting to additional support if you think it might be helpful.
- Practical support: ask what they need – can you help with picking up medication or groceries? Do they need help with childcare while they process their experience or attend appointments?
- Encourage them to look after their own health and wellbeing: ensuring that rest, recovery and nutrition are still being prioritised.
How the Support Hub can help
The Support Hub for Victims and Survivors of Terrorism offers a wide range of services for both you and the person you’re supporting, including:
- Dedicated caseworkers who develop personalised plans for accessing immediate and ongoing support. This can include referrals for psychological support and peer support.
- Practical and financial information, helping your friend or family member understand benefits and entitlements, insurance and other financial schemes that may be applicable.
- Help and guidance on how to deal with media and public attention after a terrorist attack.
- Support through the Support Hub helpline and live chat.
Supporting someone after a terror attack can affect your own emotional wellbeing. The Support Hub also provides information and resources you can use to support yourself during this time.
Resources
There are guides available on My Support Space about supporting someone after a terrorist attack, understanding trauma, and looking after your wellbeing.
Supporting someone after terrorism
Ideas on how you can approach difficult conversations and how you can help.
Difficult emotions
Explains the emotions the person you're supporting may be going through with tips to support them.
Improving wellbeing
Simple steps to improve wellbeing and short-term coping strategies for when things feel difficult.
Understanding trauma
Explains some of the common effects of trauma and how traumatic experiences can affect the brain.
Dealing with the media
What to consider when approaching the media, and who to speak to for advice.
Coping strategies
Explains what coping strategies can look like, and how you can help the person you’re supporting.