Patriot Day is coming! 9-11 and PTSD It was bedtime as usual on the night of September 10, 2001. Little did we know that by the next morning, countless Americans would NEVER again be the same! Since 9-11, an astounding number of people have been afflicted with or re-activated by PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder), a condition that can affect anyone who experiences a traumatic or life-threatening event. It has been described as a “normal reaction to an abnormal event.” The whole person is catapulted into emergency mode (fight or flight or freeze survival), and stays locked in that emergency mode for the rest of their life. 24/7 they live as if the trauma could reoccur at any moment. And many relive the trauma as if it were actually happening over and over again. Even if a person was not directly involved with the disaster, horrific events such as 9-11 can re-traumatize those who already have PTSD. It’s like grief. If you have deeply grieved the loss of a loved one, any further grief in your life will also exhume all the grief you thought was buried. One amazing lady shares, “I already had PTSD after the suicide of my husband, so when 9-11 hit, things went from bad to worse. Now I am remarried to a Vietnam veteran who also has PTSD. When his PTSD kicks in, mine does too…and it gets really interesting here! I still cry at the drop of a hat, but volunteering, connecting with others, and also directing my grief in positive ways has really helped.” As one of the most tragic days in the history of the United States approaches, (or any patriotic holidays or traumatic anniversaries), be alert for increased symptoms which may include anxiety, avoidance, depression, fear, flashbacks, hyper-vigilance, numbing, nightmares, difficulty sleeping, relationship problems, outburst of rage and other emotions, withdrawal, employment problems, increased substance abuse, and suicidal thoughts. But before you toss in the towel, I’m here to tell you there is hope. I see victory over PTSD every day in my veteran husband, who has battled it for decades. Although it is never easy – a continuous challenge – the rewards are so worth it! I encourage everyone who struggles with PTSD and all the loved ones who also live with it, to do all you can to be prepared for triggers and traumatic dates like 9-11. Bottom line: know what resources are available, and connect with others who care. I encourage you to visit LoveOurVets.org for helpful information about PTSD, resources, and ways to connect with others. For those with PTSD, here are some ways you can prepare for the 9-11 Anniversary: 1. Stay aware of your body and emotions. 2. Talk about it with someone who is supportive. 3. Have the courage to call for help if you need it. 1-800-273-8255 4. Avoid the news, photos, and all T.V. about 9-11. 5. Plan something enjoyable to do that day, and the next. 6. Consider volunteering or helping someone with a need. 7. Be with someone you trust, and who cares about you. For all loved ones, you can also be prepared: 1. Stay mindful of your body and emotions. 2. Remember you cannot fix them. 3. Give them space if they need it. 4. Encourage them to connect with a support group and/or counselor. 5. Keep the television off or tuned to something unrelated. 6. Connect with others in a similar support role. 7. Do something special for YOU. People with PTSD may never again be the same, but they can live a happy and fulfilled life in spite of the PTSD. I know. Because we do!
Posted on: Mon, 01 Sep 2014 18:03:46 +0000
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