The terrible and traumatic events occurring in Kenya are threatening people’s safety. From our experiences here at the Center for Victims of Torture, we would like to offer some information that may be of help to our brothers and sisters in Kenya. This information can be of help to anyone, including those interviewing and assisting people who have survived horrible events - such as journalists, aid workers, or truth commission personnel.

You may be experiencing many reactions for the first time. For those who have had previous traumatic experiences, you may find that you are re-experiencing thoughts, emotions, symptoms, and fears associated with previous experiences. Although these feelings can be scary and distressing, it is important to remember that as human beings, these reactions are normal responses to situations involving widespread destruction, horror and violence threatening life.

For specific information about what you can do for yourself and others - download this document: Normal Human Reactions to Terrible Events

For an excellent "pocket size" reminder card titled "Caring for yourself in the face of difficult work" download this document: http://www.isu.edu/irh/handouts/Aid_Worker_Pocket_Card.pdf

When the situation regains stability, your responses are very likely to decrease over time. If you find this is not the case, seek help and assistance from others. You are not alone and there is help available.

In Kenya, the Independent Medico-Legal Unit (IMLU) is an organization that may be able to connect you with counseling services. You can learn more about IMLU and their work through their website: http://www.imlu.org/

Journalists are very often in positions where they are highly explosed not only to threats against their own lives but listen to and interview the accounts from many others. The Dart Center for Journalism and Trauma does research and posts information to help journalists understand how trauma affects them, as well as how to be sensitive when interviewing trauma victims. Their Web site is at: http://www.dartcenter.org/

Tips for interviewing trauma victims and their families:
http://www.dartcenter.org/quick_tips/interviewing.html

They have self-care for journalist tips at:
http://www.dartcenter.org/quick_tips/journalist.html

Here is a contact page with email to staff at the Dart Center:
http://www.dartcenter.org/about/personnel.php

Reporters without Borders has information for journalists regarding their safety and security. They also offer bulletproof vests for freelance journalists:
http://www.reseau-damocles.org/rubrique.php3?id_rubrique=193

ProtectiOnline.org also has information, more related to how the media can protect human rights defenders in their work:
http://www.protectionline.org/-Media,26-.html

Let us know if you are aware of other resources that would be of help and assistance to people or if we can be of assistance in connecting you with the resources you need.