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The
shock and pain of the multiple disasters of September 11, 2001 will be one
that will profoundly affect us as individuals, communities, and as a
nation for some time to come. Like
other types of disasters, they were unexpected, stunning, and devastating.
This is an event of such magnitude that it will inevitably change
our lives in some very profound ways. As
the immediate shock wears off, feelings of uncertainty and sadness often
begin to take hold. You may need to focus on your needs, and by
doing so, you will be stronger to help those around you who may be ailing. Whether
you were directly or indirectly affected by the events, there are some
normal reactions that people experience as a result of disaster.
Generally, these feelings don't last long, but it is common to feel
let down and resentful many months after the event. Some feelings or
responses may not appear until weeks or even after the events. Some
common responses are: ·
Irritability or Anger ·
Sadness ·
Feeling tired or run-down ·
Headaches or Nausea ·
Loss of Appetite ·
Excessive or nervous energy ·
Difficulty sleeping ·
Lack of Concentration ·
Nightmares ·
Being easily startled ·
Increased Alcohol or Drug use Many
people, whether they were close to an incident, had friend or loved ones
who were affected, or they watched the incidents on television, may
experience at least one of the above responses in reaction to the events. The
first step toward healing is to acknowledge the effect this tragedy has
had on your thoughts and feelings. The
next step is to talk about it. ·
Talk about your impressions of the disasters. Sharing your feelings
will help you feel better. Holding
your feelings inside will only make things worse. ·
Get together with close friends, family, and loved ones.
There is power in numbers, and the power is healing ·
Take time off from mundane or difficult tasks. Focus in on something that you find relaxing or can hold your
attention. Doing something
with other people can be most helpful. · Do something to help those who are affected. Give blood, donate money, or just be there to talk with a friend. ·
Eat well, sleep, and exercise.
These may seem obvious, but they are the foundations to your mental
and physical health. ·
Get information, but don't overdo it.
Watch TV, listen to the radio, and listen to the experiences of
others. But don't stay
glued to the TV or your anxiety may only get worse.
Make time to get outside and connect with other people.
·
If you have children, know that they will be looking to you for the
ways to react to this tragedy. Give
them age-appropriate information and let them help by doing something
meaningful (such as making a card for survivors). · Prepare for possible future emergencies to lessen feelings of helplessness and bring peace of mind. Pack an emergency kit with flashlights, battery-operated radio, tennis shoes, food, water, and a cell phone. Write down your local disaster information hotline. ·
Rebuild personal relationships.
Couples may want to take time to be alone together, talk,
reconnect, and share in some healing activity. If
stress, anxiety, depression, or physical problems continue, you may wish
to talk with someone who can help. For
a referral, you may wish to contact your local community mental health
center or professional psychological organization.
You may also call the American Psychological Association at (800)
964-2000 and you will be connected with a state psychological association
referral network in your area. Reread
this periodically over the next few weeks and months. Being aware of
your feelings and sharing them with others is an important part of
recovery. The above article was written by Dr. Greg Cason with
portions adapted from the Los Angeles City Fire Department's
"Earthquake Preparedness Handbook"
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