Things to Try
Within the first 24-48 hours, periods of strenuous physical exercise alternated with relaxation will alleviate some of the physical reactions.
Structure your time - keep as busy as possible.
You're normal and having normal reactions - don't label yourself as "going crazy".
Talk to people - talk is the most healing medicine.
Be aware of numbing the pain with overuse of drugs or alcohol, you don't need to complicate this with a substance abuse problem.
Reach out - people do care.
Keep your life as normal as possible.
Spend time with others.
If others are involved help them as much as possible by sharing your feelings and checking out how they're doing.
Give yourself permission to feel "awful" and share your feelings with others.
Keep a journal, write your way through those sleepless hours.
Do things that feel good to you.
Realize those around you are under stress.
The Nutrition Almanac recommends supplementing your diet with Vitamins C, B2, B6, Calcium and Magnesium.
Don't make any big life changes or decisions in the next couple of months (e.g. divorce, quit job, move). Hold your thought(s), try to not take action for at least 6 weeks.
Do make as many daily decisions as possible, which will give you a feeling of control over your life, (e.g., if someone asks you what you want to eat - answer him or her even if you're not sure).
Eat well - but there is no need to force yourself if it makes you ill.
Taking Control of Your Stress
Increase your physical activity - within the first 24-48 hours, periods of exercise (walking, running, aerobics, yard or house work, etc.) alternated with relaxation will alleviate some physical reactions.
Share your stress - sometimes just talking with a friend or family member helps.
Sleep and diet - the better rested and nourished you are, the better equipped you are to tackle your stress.
Recognize your limits - learn to accept that your are not capable of doing all things all the time. You are healing.
Get involved - becoming a participant is a good way to reduce stress.
Prioritize your time - write down the things you have to do in the order that they have to be done.
Alcohol and drugs - neither helps you to actually manage your stress.
Do things that you enjoy doing. Do something for yourself that might make you feel better, even for a little while.
Realize that those around you are under stress also - share your feelings with others and check out how they're doing.
Remember - You are normal and your reactions are the normal reactions of one who has experienced an abnormal event.