MOBILE, Ala. (WALA) - The deadly attack in New Orleans has produced a wave of alarming headlines, chilling stories, and nauseating pictures and videos.
With traumatic events like these, one local therapist is encouraging those affected to seek the help they need.
Christopher Fancher, a clinical mental health therapist at Altapointe in Mobile, says there are several signs of post-traumatic stress disorder.
"Restlessness, insomnia, lowered appetite- just a plethora of different physical symptoms- headaches. Then again, some of these symptoms can intertwine with depressive symptoms so it's very important that you feel like you have some of these symptoms-- don't be a WebMD warrior-- go ahead and come in and be seen by a professional," said Fancher.
Fancher says it's important to seek mental help sooner rather than later.
"If they're having those types of symptoms for a prolonged period of time- let's say 2 to 3 weeks after the initial contact, then it probably is time to look at potential therapy or potential case management for them," he added. "I think for a lot of people, this is something that they're going to be new to. A lot of people having experienced having a mental health battle until right now."
Fancher says there are practical steps you can take on your own if therapy isn't your immediate choice.
"Journaling is good. Being able to connect with friends and family again. Figuring out things you like to do like basketball or going on a walk. Obviously is someone is having very adverse effects to it, come see a professional or call 911 if you're struggling with suicidal ideation," said Fancher.
The stigma behind seeking mental help is something that often holds people back from pursuing it, Fancher says. Fancher says he doesn't want that to be you.
"It's easier to stay in that pain, it's easier to put up with that for years because I don't have to tell anybody- I can just put it in my back pocket, but for me to actually work on that, that takes much more strength. Eventually, you put too much stuff in that backpack-- that backpack is going to overflow," said Fancher.