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On The Couch with Dr. Dorree Lynn
- week of 10/22/01 -
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.

This column's for you,

Dr. D.

Dorree Lynn, PH.D.

On The Couch with Dr. Dorree Lynn

FAMILY LAW Advisor® HOME PAGE

These articles are provided for informational purposes only. No materials posted here are intended to constitute medical advice, which by necessity, must relate to each person's individual situation. This site does not constitute a patient-professional relationship. You are urged to seek help from a local mental health professional concerning your specific circumstances.

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