Psychologist advises families returning from the Middle East: “Symptoms may appear in unexpected ways”

Finnish families have recently returned from crisis areas in the Middle East, leaving parents concerned about their children’s reactions to frightening events.

Psychologist Riikka Marttila notes that reactions may be delayed. Symptoms include sleep disturbances and fears. Marttila advises returning to daily routines and seeking professional help if personal efforts are insufficient.

Many parents are worried about their children after returning to Finland from the Middle East. Travelers have witnessed and heard explosions as the United States and Israel struck Iran last week. Explosions have also occurred in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

The Tervolin family from Kouvola finally returned home from Dubai this week. The family saw an explosion about two kilometers away from the beach. Paula Tervolin, the family’s mother, expressed concern about how the frightening events have affected her children.

Marttila, a psychologist at Kouvola’s family guidance center, reports that the center has already received some inquiries from families returning from the Middle East. She anticipates that the number of inquiries will increase as people settle back into their daily lives and routines.

“Reactions usually come later when we realize that the distressing situation has not passed,” Marttila says.

We asked psychologist Riikka Marttila for advice for families returning home from unstable regions.

The Tervolin family heard and saw a large explosion just a couple of kilometers away on February 28. Video: Paula Tervolin.

1. How should families be advised if they notice changes in their children after returning home?

According to psychologist Riikka Marttila, it is natural for a frightening situation to affect people.

“Usually, when we encounter a frightening situation, we first go into a bit of shock and kind of freeze. After the initial shock, emotions may be at the surface. Then the person starts to process the events. After experiencing danger, a person is in ‘survival mode’ until the situation calms down.”

“It is very common that suppressed emotions come out in different ways once the situation is safe again.”

2. How might children react to frightening situations afterward?

Psychologist Riikka Marttila points out that reactions are highly individual.

“Often, in children, this may manifest in behavior in somewhat surprising ways. A child may develop sleep disturbances or fears. They might startle at loud noises.”

“The body is then still in a state of emergency or alertness, making it more reactive to things. Some children may hide their symptoms, but they might manifest as irritability.”

Marttila emphasizes that it is important for parents to take care of themselves first. When a parent has processed the situation and calmed down, they can better help their child.

Children may react to frightening situations in unexpected ways, says psychologist Riikka Marttila. Photo: Janne Lindroos / Yle

3. When should you contact a professional?

Psychologist Riikka Marttila advises first observing how daily life resumes and how the child reacts. It is also advisable to discuss the situation with the child. Reactions may ease as the child realizes that life is returning to normal and is safe.

“There is no need to panic immediately. It is very important that the child returns to their usual routine.”

Marttila encourages contacting low-threshold services such as family guidance centers or school health care if personal efforts are not enough. She notes that in some situations, it is normal for a child not to want to talk to their parents.

In such a situation, Marttila recommends that the parent can seek support for talking to the child. The whole family can come to a professional to discuss the event.

“If one family member cannot talk about something, it may be that another family member can help bridge the gap.”

Source: Yle