Sydneysiders witnessed horrific scenes at Westfield Bondi Junction. How should they process the trauma? | Kim Felmingham

In the days and weeks after traumatic events like these, people often experience a range of emotions: from fear and anxiety, anger, sadness and grief to disbelief and numbness, guilt and worry about safety.

For many, their sense of risk may be heightened, particularly as such random violence occurred during such an ordinary event – shopping on a Saturday afternoon.

Australian prime minister Anthony Albanese lays flowers for Bondi Junction stabbing victims – videoUnderstandably, those more at risk are people who were present during the trauma and experienced a direct threat, as well as those who witnessed the violence or aftermath, first responders (paramedics and police) and those who had loved ones injured or lost during the event.

People who had more intense emotional responses during the trauma, or previous psychological difficulties or traumatic experiences, may also be at greater risk.

Keep some structure in your day, setting small goals, and increase your self-care: eat well, rest (even if you can’t sleep well), try yoga or relaxation.

Seek out information from trusted sources but try to avoid being saturated by images or stories about the trauma, particularly graphic footage or speculation common on social media.