What are the  basic steps others can take to help survivors of trauma?

• Friends, colleagues and family are often keen to help someone who has been through a dreadful experience, but are uncertain as to what to do or say, particularly since they do not wish to make matters worse. 
  
  
• The following may be helpful. (These steps are what some call "Psychological First Aid".)
  
  
• Comfort and protect from further harm.
• Reduce the sense of helplessness.
• Re-establish a sense of order and control.
• Allow the expression of feelings.
• Reassure them of the normality of their feelings.
• Provide accurate information.
• Re-unite with others.
• Identify sources of support (lay and professional).
• Avoid clichés (e.g., "I know how you feel").