Post 9/11: What to do when post-traumatic stress doesn't subside?

Filed in archive Cases , Mental Maladies , Studies on August 14, 2009

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Almost 8 years later when emotional side effects should have generally decreased, the mental effects of the September 11th attacks are still on the rise. While effects of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) tend to last a few months and in serious cases years, Americans are seeing a spike in PTSD cases related to the 9/11 events.

In a collaborative study done by New York City's Department of Health and Mental Hygiene and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, numbers showed a 5% increase in people suffering from PTSD. Typically PTSD symptoms lessen with time, so a large increase raises questions. The rise in numbers is seen not only in rescue workers but anyone affected by the attacks.

While PTSD symptoms are not controllable they are definitely treatable. Chicagohealers.com Practitioner Martha Howard M.D. offers suggestions on how to relieve pressure from traumatic experiences through simple communication tactics.

• Keep a journal - Making notes about times when you have flashbacks or upsetting thoughts will help to determine specific triggers and memories.


• Talk openly - A common symptom of PTSD is to avoid talking about the traumatic experience. Be open to talking about the situation with others, this will help you form an identity with the event.


• Join a support group - Many civilian disasters will have groups dedicated to coping with serious events. Otherwise seek a group that deals with PTSD to hear how others are handling their symptoms.


• Expose yourself to the traumatic event - Slowly exposing yourself to the event will help you become desensitized to the aspects that cause PTSD. Using photos or even recalling your personal experience can help with exposure.


• Be cautious of drug and alcohol consumption - People suffering from PTSD are more likely to abuse drugs and alcohol as a way of coping with the stress.

For more information, please visit www.chicagohealers.com. If symptoms persist or worsen, please schedule an appointment with a mental health specialist.