The tragic events on September 11, 2001 have had a profound impact on all Americans. It can be hard to understand and cope with the range of emotions. In order to heal from the tragedy, it is important to understand how you are grieving.
Each person's response to a traumatic event is different; people experience stress and anxiety in their own way. Responses to disaster can appear immediately or even months later. Most importantly though, know you are not alone in your pain and that there is help.
The following are some common responses to disaster:
On their Web site, the National Mental Health Association (NMHA) provides some tips to help deal with the stress, pain, and anxiety associated with coping with disasters.
The NMHA advises seeking professional help if you are troubled by strong feelings that will not go away for more than four to six weeks.
RESOURCES:
American Counseling Association
http://www.counseling.org
National Institute of Mental Health
http://www.nimh.nih.gov
National Mental Health Association
http://www.nmha.org
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Canadian Psychiatric Association
http://www.cpa-apc.org
Canadian Psychological Association
http://www.cpa.ca/cpasite/home.asp
References:
Coping with disaster: tips for adults. National Mental Health Association website. Available at: http://www.nmha.org .
Last reviewed February 2008 by Ryan Estévez, MD, PhD, MPH
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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