FEAR AND WORRY IN MENTAL HEALTH

Knowing that something terrible can happen “out of the
blue” can make people very fearful. This is especially true when a family
member feels unsafe and often reminds others about possible dangers. Very
often, trauma survivors feel “on edge” and become preoccupied with
trying to stay safe. They may want to get a guard dog, or put up security
lights, or have weapons in the house in order to protect themselves and their
family members. When one person in a family is very worried about safety, it
can make everyone else feel unsafe too. However, something that helps one
person feel safe-like a loaded weapon under the bed-may make another person
feel unsafe.

Family members can also experience fear when the trauma
survivor is angry or aggressive. As described above, trauma survivors can
become angry and aggressive automatically if they feel they are in danger.
Trauma survivors may also become…