Sadly, serious accidents can occur on the rail network. Witnessing an incident involving injury or loss of life can be distressing, even if you were not physically involved or if you didn’t know the person.

People can be affected emotionally, mentally, and physically after seeing or hearing about a traumatic event. These responses are sometimes called vicarious trauma. Everyone reacts differently, and there is no “right” or “wrong” way to feel.

Common reactions

It is normal to experience:

• Shock, sadness, guilt, or anxiety
• Intrusive thoughts, images, or dreams about the incident
• Difficulty sleeping or concentrating
• Feeling on edge or more concerned about safety

These reactions often settle over time, particularly if you:

• Keep to normal routines where possible
• Stay physically active
• Avoid using alcohol or drugs to cope
• Talk with someone you trust
• Seek professional help

Trying to block out thoughts completely can sometimes make negative thoughts stronger. Gently acknowledging what happened and its impact on you, even briefly, can help you process the experience.

When to seek extra support

It may help to talk with a health professional, EAP service, trusted friend/colleague or counsellor if you notice:

• Ongoing nightmares or flashbacks
• Feeling numb, disconnected, or constantly on edge
• Withdrawing from others
• Increased use of alcohol or drugs
• Ongoing relationship or family conflict
• Avoiding the location of the incident, or anxious thoughts when nearing the location
  

Even severe reactions to witness an event can improve with the right support.

Children and young people

Children may respond differently to adults after witnessing a traumatic event. They may show changes in behaviour, emotions, or sleep.

Rather than waiting for any behaviour change, parents and carers should seek early advice from a GP or specialist support service on how best to help.

Information about the incident

People often want to know the outcome for those involved. Unfortunately, rail operators are usually not able to provide this information.

As a witness you may be required to complete a statement as part of any inquiry into an event.

Free and confidential support in New Zealand

You are not alone. The following organisations offer free, confidential support:

1737 – call or text 1737

Talk with a trained counsellor any time, day or night

Lifeline

Emotional support and crisis help. Lifeline website.

Phone 0800 543 354 | text HELP to 4357

Your GP / Primary care provider

Can assess your wellbeing and refer you to local services

Aoake te Rā – bereaved by suicide service.

This is available to witnesses, or anyone bereaved by a suspected suicide. Aoake te Ra website

For a full list of available helplines in New Zealand – go to the Mental Health Foundation website.

https://mentalhealth.org.nz/helplines