When do these reactions tend to occur and for how long do they last?
Not everybody will report all the normal reactions listed, and individuals may experience them in a different order.
However, the numbness, shock and denial tend to be some of the most immediate reactions whereas depression tends to appear later when the full reality of what has happened has sunk in.
Occasionally there can be a delayed reaction, occurring weeks or even months after the event.
In most cases these normal reactions become less intense and less frequent over a few weeks or months after the trauma.
After about 4 weeks, if they have continued without lessening or if they have become worse and/or if they are interfering with individual's general living, they might consider getting professional help by contacting their general practitioner. In such cases, the individual might be suffering from Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) or another post-traumatic condition.