post cpr

[No-anxiety]

I gave cpr at the weekend with a successful outcome, after 4 rounds of chest compressions and use of defib. So why do I feel so low? I can’t stop crying, don’t want to interact or socialise. Just feel so flat when I should feel on top of the world

[Tos92]

Firstly, thank you for saving someone’s life. We really do need more people like you. Secondly, when a major event like this happens, we don’t always have time to process things as we need to act quickly therefore, we know we can’t be overcome with emotion. Once the event passes and we truly have time to reflect on what has happened, the reality of the situation starts kicking in as it feels pretty surreal when the actual event is happening. Afterwards, we start to think about the “what ifs” and “what more could I have done” or what would’ve happened if the CPR wasn’t successful for example. But please remember, these feelings are normal and they should hopefully pass as it was a major event for both yourself and the person receiving the CPR.

You have done a fantastic job and it’s really important that you now look after yourself too. It’s great that you have posted on here and feel like you can talk about it as it’s a step in the right direction. There are some great resources and help out there for mental health support after giving CPR. I have linked some information below in case you find it helpful.

MIND charity helpline

0300 123 3393

Anxiety UK helpline

03444775774

Please be kind and patient with yourself during this time. There will be many others on here who will provide you with support and you are welcome to post any time you are feeling up to it.

Keeping you in my thoughts.

Tos ❤️

[No-anxiety in reply to Tos92]

Thank you for your lovely and helpful reply.. I am so happy we had a positive outcome.. I know odds are against this outside a hospital setting.. just can’t explain or understand my feelings.. I’m just hoping in time it will pass.. I work in a hospital and don’t even feel like going to work which is very unlike me…

[Tos92 in reply to No-anxiety]

Please know that you are appreciated and having people like you in our society is an honour.

I believe the NHS provide services for mental health counselling for staff in hospitals in the U.K. I have come across the below link. I wonder if your hospital does something like this which you might benefit from.

england.nhs.uk/supporting-o....

As the event is still very recent, I do believe that once sufficient time has passed you may feel better. I really hope you get your motivation and momentum back to keep looking after people and doing what you enjoy, as well as looking after yourself. Thank you for all that you do x

[Milkfairy Heart Star]

As others have suggested it is not unusual to feel alittle disoriented after such an event.

Well done for performing CPR, a skill that we should all perhaps be taught.

My son successfully resuscitated a child who nearly drowned in a swimming pool a few years ago.

It took him sometime to process the experience.

Be kind and patient with yourself.

I spent time with my son allowing him to talk about what had happened.

Is there someone in your life that you can share your experience with?

Do you feel able to talk to your Line Manager at work ?

You can also refer yourself to Occupational Health and they can help to access further help for you.

Going to see your GP is another option.

I hope you feel better soon.

[No-anxiety in reply to Milkfairy]

Thank you… I really appreciate you taking the time to reply and sharing your story..

[cappachina]

Well done and I think your feelings are just normal Your body and brain have gone into shock You will process it but inghd meantime be proud of yourself You have saved a life not many of us can say that

[No-anxiety in reply to cappachina]

Thank you for your kind message.. I think I probably am in a bit of shock.. just went for a nice day out to watch my boyfriend play football.. no one can anticipate what actually happened… I know it’s a miracle he survived and go feel very proud.. just shocked by the whole event!

[No-anxiety]

Thank you…

We have a counselling service at work that I have reached out to so I can de brief!!!

I appreciate you messaging, and your knowledge.. thank you