Terrorism

Date

Dear Medical/Health Reporter:

September 11th is a day we will always remember. It’s one month later and we are now in a new world. Americans must go on with their lives amid warnings of future terrorist attacks.

The psychological effects of the terrorist acts will reverberate for months, and in some people, for years. Those who lost loved ones or were injured themselves are most at risk of developing long-lasting symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder. Many others who were not physically injured or directly involved are suffering, though, and trying to cope. It is common for those who have not lost anyone close to them to feel unsettled and almost as if they had. There is no one “standard” reaction to the extreme stress of traumatic experiences. Some people respond immediately while others have delayed reactions. Some have adverse effects for a long time while others recover quickly. People who have suffered trauma earlier in their lives may be at greater risk now. And it’s hard to know who will still be suffering a few months out. When a disaster of this magnitude occurs, people experience a plethora of symptoms as they attempt to come to grips with their terror, grief and shock.

What we do know is that those with poor social support and a tendency to try to avoid thinking or talking about the situation tend to perpetuate the problem. Without counseling, these people can end up with impaired personal relationships, job loss or may even be afraid to participate in everyday activities.

Take steps to restore your emotional well-being and sense of control. Individuals finding themselves impacted by such traumatic events can take several specific steps to respond to them. Identify the feelings you may be experiencing and accept them as a normal reaction to an abnormal situation. Remember that you have overcome adversity in the past and try to remember what you did that helped you overcome the fear and helplessness of the situation. Maintain your usual routine. Limit the amount of television coverage you watch. Prepare for emergencies. The Red Cross encourages households to create an emergency communications plan, establish a meeting place, assemble a disaster supplies kit and check on children's school emergency plan. Those experiencing strong reactions that make effective functioning difficult may wish to seek psychotherapy.

As a service to your community, the Psychologists in Independent Practice, a Division of the American Psychological Association (APA), would like to offer a psychologist in your area to speak with you on this topic. He/she can help people cope and take positive steps toward managing their feelings and behaviors. Your readers can call toll-free 1-877-603-4000 for a list of tips for Coping with the Trauma.

I look forward to speaking with you.

Sincerely,

Psychologists in Independent Practice...personal, confidential, private