Psychologists talk trauma after Ottawa bus crash
Royal hosts talk Tuesday night, says balance is important to recovery
Many witnesses to last weeks fatal bus crash had a chance to address any emotional trauma at a special mental health seminar Tuesday night.
The Royal Ottawa Mental Health Centre hostedthe meeting for people struggling with the aftermath of the crash, which killed six people and injured more than 30bus passengers.
Gregory Mech said he was on the second level of thedouble-decker buswhen it crashed into a Via Rail passenger train near Fallowfield Station last Wednesday morning.
He said hes getting back to his job as an IT manager for CBC andworking shorter days after taking last week off.
Im not fully recovered mentally, but Im back to work, he said.
"It really hit home I guess when the victims were identified in person, that's when the full extent of the tragedy hit me quite hard."
Balance important to recovery
Dr. Luis Oliver, a clinical psychologist at the Royal, said its important to find balance when youre dealing with a traumatic incident.
"To pretend like nothing happened doesn't work for people, to numb out and deny what's going on, he said.On the other hand, to let it overpower you and take over your life isn't good either."
Mech said the last week has been an emotional roller-coaster but hes starting to feel better.He said hes trying to focus on the positive as he moves on.
"Compared to the others that have perished or were gravely injured, I'm very fortunate," he said.
Three psychologists, including Dr. Oliver, spoke at the Royals auditorium at 1145 CarlingAve. from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Dealing with trauma
The City of Ottawa has posted phone numbersto a number of places people can go to for help should they be in need of help after a traumatic event like the bus crash.
The Distress Centreanswers calls 24 hours a day, seven days a week, with crisis line specialists providing confidential support. They can be reached at 613-238-3311.
The Mental Health Crisis Lineanswers calls for people ages 16 or older 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Callers can reach the line at 613-722-6914.
Tel-AideOutaouaisoffers French-language mental health telephone support from 8 a.m. to midnight every day. Ottawa residents can call 613-741-6433 andGatineauresidents can contact 819-775-3223.
TheKids Help Phone(1-800-668-6868) provides confidential 24/7 phone and web counselling for children ages 20 and under.
The Youth Services Bureau(YSB) provides youth and family counselling, crisis support and a 24/7 crisis line at 613-260-2360.
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