What You Still May Be Experiencing After September 11, 2001
Every one of us who has experienced the events of September 11th and the aftermath, has encountered stress which is far beyond what is usual in our lives. Unusual reactions to an unusual situation are normal. Below are some of the reactions you may have. Although we may experience them at different times – immediately, or days, even weeks later – they are generally temporary. If we recognize and accept these emotional reactions, we can shorten the time we experience them.
Disbelief
-Feelings of re-experiencing the events
-Recall of past trauma/loss
-Heightened responses to aftershocks, loud noises, or other surprises
-Feelings of sadness, anger, irritability
-Difficulty sleeping or sleeping more than usual
-Physical discomfort: headaches, stomachaches, sore muscles, cold symptoms
-Increase or decrease of appetite
-Discomfort in places you normally would feel safe in
-Feelings of exhaustion
-Feelings of vulnerability, loss of control, confusion
-Forgetfulness, loss of concentration, difficulty making decisions, or thinking creatively
-Feelings of guilt/relief, depression, tearfulness
-Fear of laving your home or loved ones
-Discomfort being alone and/or social withdrawal
-Feeling a need to reevaluate your life – what’s really important to you, what’s not
WHAT TO DO:
1.Talk to your family, friends, or co-workers about what you have been experiencing and how you are feeling.
2.Take “loving care” of yourself: Eat healthful foods, return to exercise programs, allow yourself to take it easy, rest, listen to what your body tells you.
3.Allow extra time for usual tasks.
4.Discuss a plan for future emergencies with those close and important to you.
5.Practice relaxation techniques.
6.If appropriate, volunteer your services or make personal or financial contributions to a relief fund.
7.Reassure your children if they are frightened. They may need extra affection and physical contact with you.
8.If you belong to a secular or religious community, be involved.
9.If you believe you need herbal or traditional aids, talk to a professional.
10.Keep as much routine and stability as you can.
11.Love those you love openly and tell them how you feel. Love heals.
Life is too hard to do alone,
Dr. D.
Dorree Lynn, PH.D.
About the Author
Dr. Dorree Lynn is co-founder of the Institute for the Advanced Study of Psychotherapy and a practicing clinician in New York and Washington, DC. Dr. Lynn served on the executive board of the American Academy of Psychotherapists and she is on the editorial board of their publication, Voices. She is also a regular columnist for the Washington, DC newspaper, The Georgetowner. Dr. Lynn is a noted speaker and well known on the lecture circuit.