TeenHealthFX - Answers - Three Years After 9/11 Trauma

Depression / Question
Published: November 18, 2004

Dear TeenHealthFX,

It has been three years since 9/11, and I am really beginning to think something is wrong. I keep seeing images of that event and can't get it out of my head. My dad almost died since he was only a few blocks away from the World Trade Center, and though I thank God every day he's still with me, I have fallen into extreme depression since that event. I feel as though life is too hard, I don't belong here, and that no one in this entire world can or ever will understand me. My family has declined into poverty and I feel like I am beyond help. I am forced to stay at home since we no longer own a car, and feel like my entire life is slipping away from me. I have become unsociable and secluded, and feel as though I can't even tell my best friend all the things going on in my life. I am really concerned, as most people had put 9/11 behind them, after three years it stings just as much as when it first happened. Please, I need help! Signed, Three years after 9/11 trauma.

Signed: Three Years After 9/11 Trauma

Dear Three Years After 9/11 Trauma,

The tragic events of September 11, 2001 have left a lasting traumatic impact on many people as well as a nation. The intense news coverage of the events of 9-11 in the days and weeks that followed exposed an entire nation to an unprecedented scale of death and destruction on U.S. soil. Even those not directly affected by the events reacted with fear, concern, sadness or anger. Three years later many people are still struggling and mental health professionals continue to assess the psychological impact.

Prior to September 11th, many Americans felt safe from the devastation of terrorism. However, the horrifying events of the day shattered that sense of security. Since that infamous date there has been a reported a rise in alcohol abuse, smoking and use of illicit drugs. Doctors have also cited an increased number of cases of psychological complaints, like anxiety, depression and sleep problems.

Once the shock subsides and reality sets in, reactions can vary from person to person. Even when the event is over, you may experience immediately or later, some strong emotional and physical reactions. It is very common and normal for people to have strong reactions after they have experienced a tragic event. Reactions may appear immediately after the episode or within a few hours or days. In some cases, weeks or months can pass before the reaction appears. The reaction can last days, weeks, months and longer depending on the severity of the tragic event.

When the aftermath of a traumatic experience interferes with normal functioning, the person may be suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). In order for PTSD to be diagnosed, symptoms must be present for more than one month and be accompanied by a drop-off in the ability to socialize, work, or participate in other areas of daily functioning. Here are some facts about PTSD from the Anxiety Disorder Association of America:

5.2 million Americans ages 18-54 are diagnosed with PTSD.
PTSD can develop after an individual experience a traumatic event such as sexual or physical assault, witnessing a death, the unexpected death of a loved one, natural disaster or a terrorist attack. (PTSD is not a disorder to be associated solely with military personnel, as it has been in the past.)
67% of those exposed to mass violence have been shown to develop PTSD - a higher rate than those exposed to other types of traumatic events, such as natural disasters.
One study shows that 8% of Manhattan residents living below 110th street (approximately 67,000 people) have probable PTSD related to 9/11.
2-4% of people across the country appear to have PTSD related to the 9/11 attacks.
People who have experienced previous traumatic events run a higher risk of developing PTSD.
PTSD is marked by clear biological changes as well as psychological symptoms. PTSD is complicated by the fact that it frequently occurs in conjunction with related disorders such as depression, substance abuse, problems of memory and cognition, and other problems of physical and mental health.
For Posttraumatic Stress Disorder to be diagnosed, symptoms must be present for more than one month and be accompanied by a drop-off in the ability to socialize, work, or participate in other areas of daily functioning.
Hypersensitivity, including: inability to sleep, anxious feelings, overactive startle response, hypervigilance, irritability and outbursts of anger.
Treatment of PTSD can include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), group therapy, exposure therapy, and medication.

People who suffer from PTSD often relive the experience through nightmares and flashbacks, have difficulty sleeping, and feel detached or estranged, and these symptoms can be severe enough and last long enough to significantly impair the person's daily life.

Whether you suffer from PTSD or some other disorder only a mental health professional or doctor can make the diagnosis after a thorough evaluation. It is clear that you are in a lot of pain and struggling, but you are not beyond help. You have to reach out and try to avoid isolating yourself. A good place to start would be by finding a therapist. There are many specially trained therapists and support groups that have helped and continue to help people who have been affected by 9/11. You can find a therapist in your area or find out more information by going to the Anxiety Disorders of America or the National Institute of Mental Health websites. If you live northern New Jersey you can also contact the Access Center from Atlantic Behavioral Health at 888-247-1400.

With the proper help and support you can reclaim your life.

Signed: TeenHealthFX