Dear Kim,
On Saturday 1st October we went for a walk on the beach to enjoy the sunset. 20 Minutes after we arrived back home, the two bombs exploded at the Jimbaran cafes. Our house was shaking when this happened. We have been more than lucky, because I wanted to eat seafood next to Menega cafe. My boyfriend instead insisted to go for dinner in Kuta, because it was Saturday evening. My problem is, that since that happened, I’m constantly scared and I don’t feel comfortable at all, when I’m by myself. My friend believes that I’m suffering from trauma/shock. He suggests that I join a therapy. The two of us don’t have any experience with experts or discussion groups we could consult. Could give us some advice in this matter? (N.N. Jimbaran Bay)
Dear N.,
I have received many enquiries like yours, so you can be rest assured that you are not the only one who feels this way, indeed many people do. When terrible things happen we must all feel the shock, trauma and grief in order to process it and release it from our lives. Grieving is a healing process. It is NORMAL. Let’s look at what we should expect to feel, or what behavior we may expect in those around us. Some of the common things that you may experience are:
- Grief, anxiety, guilt, anger, numbness, helplessness, shame, emptiness, decreased ability to feel pleasure/interest/love. Children may regress.
- Nightmares, poor concentration, unwanted memories of the disaster, self blame, confusion, indecisiveness, worry.
- Difficulty sleeping, tension, fatigue, headaches, nausea, change in appetite, change in libido.
- Distrust, conflict, withdrawal, problems with work or school. Children may become clingy or aggressive.
All these feelings are common, even NORMAL, and should be recognized as a healthy part of a healing process. Their intensity should begin to subside approximately one month after the disaster. Small groups should be encouraged to meet, even small dinner parties, coffee mornings, or a casual impromptu cup of tea will all be therapeutic in bringing these emotions to the fore, so as they can be expressed, processed and laid to rest.
Significant symptoms that may require ongoing professional consultation:
- Severe persistent symptoms – Marked depression, panic attacks,extreme numbing, inability to control emotions, problems with self-care.
- Re-occurrence of existing psychiatric conditions.
- Terrifying memories, persistent nightmares, and flashbacks.
- Substance abuse – overuse of alcohol, or drug dependence.
- Aggression.
These symptoms can occur immediately or months after the event. They may take several years to subside. Any one experiencing this, or who knows of someone who is should seek appropriate counseling.
Children
Children may react in ways, that as adults we may not recognize as such. Naturally a 3-year-old may react differently than a 12-year old, and I will not go into a detailed account of what to expect from each age group. It is important to realize however that a child’s concept of tragic events will differ vastly to those of an adult. Children expect that parents (or other trusted adult parties) have the ability to protect them from danger. In the event of disaster, it becomes evident that “big people” have lost the ability to control the situation. The child may then express grave fears as to what will happen to the world, and develop a pre-occupation with danger and vulnerability. Even though we may try to protect our children as best we can from what has occurred, we should never underestimate the impact that disasters have on them. Television, media, and stories from schoolmates are all taken in with open eyes and minds. Commonly children will become very demanding, over-reacting to minor ills and wounds, expressing feelings that they are unloved, and quarreling with siblings or schoolmates. It is important for us as parents or carers to recognize this as a reaction to a situation rather than truancy or misbehavior. Be honest and open with children (sparing unnecessary ghoulish details), and answer their questions simply but truthfully. Reassure them that while everyone is shaken by the event that they are still loved; take a little extra time to listen and rub the sore leg, or tend the wounded knee, however trivial it may seem. Encourage expression through play acting, painting or writing. Once again if you child’s symptoms are severe or persistent, speak to a professional. For trauma counselling in Bali, you can contact: Yayasan Kanaivasu, Jl. Jayagiri No. 4 Renon Phone/Fax: 0361-240448, <dejesus_e@hotmail.com>. If you are in Jimbaran area, you may go to the Posko conducted in conjunction with Red Cross Bali and Yayasan Kanaivasu, every day, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Posko is located behind the row of restaurants that begins with Nyoman Cafe. There is a banner and a sitting area outside the Posko.
Dear Kim,
I have been advised by my Doctor in the UK to seek the “flu vaccine” in order to protect myself against the Avian “Bird” flu. Where can I get this vaccine in Bali? (J.P. Sanur).
Dear J.P.,
First of all the “flu” vaccine (Vaxigrip) will not give you 100% protection against the Avian flu, however we are being told that the Vaxigrip vaccine may decrease the severity of the disease, and the transmission rate. The vaccine is available at my practice, Community Health Center (08123-66-0000), with Dr Ristie Darmawan (081238-18570), Intl SOS (710505), or BIMC (761263). The cost of the vaccine ranges between Rp 200,000 – Rp 280,000 depending on the dose.
You should not receive this vaccine if:
- You are allergic to eggs, fowl proteins, and/or chicken feathers or neomycin.
- You have fever above 37.8 c.
- You have a lowered immunity (e.g. those suffering from HIV, leukemia, renal failure etc).
- Infants under 6 months of age should not receive Vaxigrip.
- Pregnant woman should ask their doctor if they require the vaccine.
“
Kim Patra is a qualified Registered Nurse and Midwife that has been living and working in Bali for almost twenty years. She now runs her own private practice and medical referral service from her Kuta office. Kim is happy to discuss any health concerns with you and she may be contacted via e-mail at info@chcbali.com”.
