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Mental Health Since 9-11
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Business New Haven
1/21/2002
By:
Susan Cornell
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We're redefining “normal” and constantly questioning “What's next?” How are patients coping with life since the September 11 attacks and what advice can be given to us all? BNH interviewed Steven Southwick, a professor of psychiatry at the Yale University School of Medicine and co-director of the National Center for PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) at the Connecticut Veterans Hospital in West Haven.
How has September 11 changed your work?
Since September 11 we have seen an increase in the number of patients requesting mental-health services. We have also seen an exacerbation of trauma-related symptoms in individuals who already are being treated for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). For example, some individuals with PTSD have become more alert and more vigilant. For some, frightening or gruesome scenes from the television reawaken memories of their own past traumas. There has also been an increase in sadness and the sense that we, the people of the U.S., are no longer invulnerable. And, of course, there has been the worry that Afghanistan might become another Vietnam. However, it is also true that we have seen a dramatic increase in feelings and expressions of patriotism. Some of our older patients have even expressed the wish to be younger and in better physical condition so that they could re-enlist and help to protect our country.
How about anxiety over bio-terrorism?
The fear of anthrax has gripped our entire nation, particularly among those of us who live on the East Coast. These fears are based on a real threat. However, in my opinion, some media accounts of the anthrax 'epidemic' have exaggerated the danger and have contributed to a heightened sense of fear among many Americans. This is unfortunate, because people who are afraid often become immobilized and feel like passive victims. But remaining passive is not useful in dealing with fear. Instead, an active coping style is needed. To combat fear, it is helpful to have accurate information, a realistic appraisal of the potential danger and a potential plan of action.
Is fear of flying now overstated?
Clearly, many Americans and other world travelers have been afraid to fly since September 11. The haunting image of passenger planes crashing into the World Trade Center and Pentagon still remains with them. While these events were truly tragic, it is important to keep in mind the actual risk of dying in an airplane crash. The chances of dying in an automobile accident are far greater than the chance of dying in an airplane, even with the increased threat of terrorism.
Will we ever get back to normal?
Since September 11, we have observed many normal people responding to an exceptionally abnormal situation. In such a situation it is normal to fluctuate between feeling stunned and shocked, anxious and afraid, numb and shut down, sad and heartbroken, irritable and angry and at other times perfectly normal, as if nothing unusual has happened. In order to take care of ourselves and one another it is important to restore as much as possible a sense of trust, safety and predictability. It helps to resume normal everyday activities, take care of yourself - eat well, get enough sleep, exercise, continue normal spiritual and religious activities - avoid excess alcohol as a way to self-medicate, maintain solid relationships with family, friends and community, and reach out to help someone else. Do not isolate yourself. Call upon your strengths. We all have an inner reservoir of strength, cherished values and idealism. Take an active stance toward fear.
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