Common Reactions After a Critical Incident
Critical incidents are unexpected, unusual events perceived by an individual as threatening or traumatic. They are often sudden, outside our normal frame of reference and a challenge to out ability to cope. If you experience a critical incident, you can have a wide range of reactions. It is important to remember:
Your reaction is your reaction. You might react differently to different situations at different times. There is no right way to react
Common reactions
Additional supports are needed when:
- Your reactions are feeling particularly strong and persisting over time
- Your reactions are increasing in intensity, rather than decreasing over time
- You feel out of control, or your activities of daily living are being negatively affected
- Your own coping and support resources aren't helping you to find a resolution
What you can do to help others:
- Listen with an open mind, acknowledge their thoughts and feelings
- Accept that they may need time and space
- Offer to lend a hand with everyday tasks
- Point out there are resources and supports available to help
- Respect their privacy, and only reach out on their behalf with their consent, or if you are concerned about imminent safety
On-campus resources
Staff Wellness
Calling Staff Wellness is a great first step for faculty or staff or post-doctoral scholars experiencing distress. The Mental Health Consultant and Ability Management Advisors can provide advice about appropriate on and off-campus support resources.
403.220.2918 | staffwellness@ucalgary.ca | ucalgary.ca/staffwellness
Campus Security
For all imminent life-threatening situations, call 911. For all other safety and security concerns, call Campus Security for 24/7 support and immediate response.
403.220.5333 | ucalgary.ca/campus-security
Sexual Violence Support Advocate
The Sexual Violence Support Advocate offers confidential support and information regarding sexual violence to all members of the university community.
403.220.2208 | ucalgary.ca/sexualviolencesupport
Office of Diversity, Equity and Protected Disclosure
The Protected Disclosure serves as a confidential resource for individuals seeking information and advice on sensitive and diverse matters.
403.220.4086 | ucalgary.ca/odepd
Student Wellness Services
Faculty and staff can contact Student Wellness Services for information about assisting students or visit for walk-in medical appointments, chiropractic treatments, massage therapy and nutrition services.
403.210.9355 | ucalgary.ca/wellnesscentre
Off-campus resources
Employee and Family Assistance Plan
TELUS Health provides in-person, online, telephone, and email support at no cost to faculty and staff.
211 Alberta
211 Alberta connects users to the right community and social services.
Dial 211 | ab.211.ca
Access Mental Health
Access Mental Health provides information, consultation and referral over the phone to help you understand and connect with helpful supports.
403.943.1500 | 1.844.943.1500
Distress Centre Calgary
Connect to professional counsellors at the Distress Centre Calgary through their 24-hour crisis line, email, or online chat. Face-to-face counselling is also available.
403.266.HELP (4357) | distresscentre.com
Community Connect YYC
Direct 24/7 online booking tool that helps individuals quickly access mental health supports when they need it the most. This service connects the community to a range of supports, including several types of counselling, and even basic needs help, often within the week.