In Response to the Tragedy of September 11, 2001…
Gerald Lewis, Ph.D.

There are no clear prescriptions or remedies for the variety of reactions that may be experienced by people of all ages. The following is a brief description of some of the possible ways that people may react and some suggestions as to how to care for ones self and our loved ones over the next weeks and months.

Certainly, people who have lost loved ones will need the utmost support and comfort for years to come. However, we must remember that this tragedy has affected all of us on some level. For some, the impact may be experienced immediately and dramatically while others may find that there is a delayed response that is of lesser intensity. Others may report that they feel only a slight emotional response that is limited to a vague sense of uneasiness or feeling emotionally distant/disconnected. Still others report feeling guilty that they are not more upset by the events and images of this event. All of these should be considered common reactions to this type of trauma. Unfortunately, when it comes to reacting to crisis and trauma … the old saying holds true: "Different strokes for different folks."

Of course, children are very vulnerable, however, they are even more affected by the reactions of the adults in their world. Therefore, as difficult as this time is, we must be careful how we react and talk when around young children. TV viewing should be kept to a minimum. Avoid false reassurances, but comfort them and be responsive to their fears and concerns (this may be tough to do). They may need more individual time with their parents, teachers and other adults in their lives.

To generally summarize, some of the common reactions to any kind of trauma or tragedy for adults or children are the following:

Sleep difficulties (too much or too little, nightmares);
Increase or decrease in appetite; Fatigue or weariness;
Disturbance with one's "internal thermostats" (bouts of the chills or sweats);
Feeling agitated and fidgety;
Difficulty with concentration or feeling easily distracted from tasks; forgetfulness;
Over reaction to minor upsets; easily frustrated; irritability and easy anger; and
Feeling emotionally numb, remote or distant.

It is important to remember that this devastating event and the subsequent media coverage has saturated our whole society, our families and each of us individually. Even for those of who are "handling it well, " it should be remembered that managing this takes a fair amount of mental energy. As the immediate crisis and the on-going events unfold over the next several months, it may tend to drain our emotional batteries… even when we are not aware of it.

Therefore, as we go forward and as the information and repercussions get sorted out, one should prepare for ways to take care of oneself and those close to us over the next couple of months.

• Try to be with other people. It is important to talk about your reactions, but also try to talk about other lighter topics. Sometimes people feel guilty if they are enjoying themselves, laughing, having fun. Remember, life must go on.
• Try to take breaks from the constant media coverage. Rent movies that are "light fare" or comedies and watch as a family. Read books or listen to music.
• Be aware of the contagious effect of anxiety and apprehension. Try to maintain objectivity in the face of false reports, misinformation and media speculation.
• Try to rest and relax when time and schedules permit. Your emotional batteries may be running low and you may not be aware of it.
• Get some gentle exercise (walking, jogging, yoga, stretching, etc.)
• Be open to spiritual/religious guidance.
• At times of loss and crisis, people may need physical contact. Be open to or demonstrate appropriate physical contact (especially with children).
• If sleep is disturbed, do not try to self-medicate with alcohol or medication. Rather, read a book, watch late night TV (not the news) and do not fret about not being able to fall back to sleep. If the disturbance persists, contact your physician.
• Watch your irritability. At times of on-going stress, people may feel more easily frustrated. If others seem irritable try to be gentle with them.