Anniversaries of traumatic events often trigger negative reactions, especially for those with post-traumatic stress disorder. But even for people who don't have full-blown PTSD, the anniversary of the September 11 attacks may stir up painful feelings, anxiety, and fear. The American Psychiatric Association (APA) warns that many people across the country may feel sad and anxious as they recall the attacks and consider the potential for future violence. This may be especially true given the August 2006 plot by terrorists to allegedly bomb multiple commercial airliners with the aim of killing hundreds of innocent people. Although police thwarted this attack, for some, the intensity of these "anniversary reactions" will be frightening and may cause them to feel as though they have lost control of their emotions. For most people, however, these feelings will fade as the anniversary passes. The following information and tips are from the APA:

•A sense of fear and foreboding related to September 11.

•Nightmares, restless sleep, or insomnia.

•Irritability and inability to concentrate.

•Withdrawal from friends and family.

•Sadness, unusual fatigue, and decreased physical and mental activity.

•Jumpiness and overreaction to sudden noises.

•Complaints like a headache or upset stomach that have no apparent physical cause.

•Reach out to those you know who have lost someone. Offer to spend time with them, or at least phone or write a note to say they are in your thoughts.

•Talk with friends and family about how you are feeling. Listen to the feelings of others.

•Talk with your children about what the 9/11 anniversary means. Perhaps watch a memorial program on television together and then talk about it. Help young children understand that the images they may see on television are just reminders, not new attacks.

•If the television memorial coverage is too distressing, turn off the TV.

•Take care of yourself by exercising, getting enough sleep, and eating regular meals.

•Reduce stress by exercising, getting a massage, listening to music, or engaging in any other activity that you enjoy.

•Maintain your normal routine.

•Draw on your religious traditions for strength.

•Don't numb your feelings with alcohol or drugs.

•Remember that the emotions that have resurfaced are normal and likely to pass in a few days.

However, if you continue to have disturbing feelings that interfere with your relationships and daily activities, the APA recommends that you consult your family physician or a mental health professional.

References

First published September 11, 2002
Last updated February 19, 2008
Copyright © 2002 Consumer Health Interactive

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