By Clyde Noel

Town Crier Correspondent

Reactions can be delayed and help should be sought

No form of disaster is more traumatic than terrorism. What occurred Sept. 11 when thousands were killed within minutes takes terrorism to a new level.

Each of us is affected emotionally and physically by the event. Although we may feel helpless, there are ways we can assist ourselves and others.

Bob McIntyre, Ph.D., clinical services manager at El Camino Hospital, offered suggestions for coping with the recent events.

“Get out and talk to friends, and your loved ones,” McIntyre said. “Get with people you care about and who care about you. Most important, take care of yourself.”

The psychological effects of a disaster usually radiate in concentric circles. Actual survivors are most traumatized, then the families and loved ones and last, the emergency personnel. This time, the terrorism affects most of us because we were there. We witnessed the events in detail on television. Every news program showed the demise of the World Trade Center, the damage at the Pentagon and the plane crash outside Pittsburgh, Pa.

“Everyone is affected by these events. It’s a matter of how much you’re affected, not whether or not you’re affected,” McIntyre said. “Symptoms can appear immediately or be delayed. We can run on adrenalin for awhile before we know what is happening to us.”

McIntyre said people may experience changes in appetite, have trouble sleeping, feel exhausted or tired and worn out. People can make things worse if they isolate themselves.

“If you can, go on a vacation. Get more rest, exercise and eat well,” McIntyre said. “Avoid drinking or recreational drug use because they often complicate things.”

Psychologists are especially concerned with children’s reactions. Kids may have fears parents don’t realize. They need an atmosphere where they can talk about their fears even if they are fictional. Psychologists encourage parents to reassure their children that they will keep them safe.

Another form of achieving emotional well-being and a sense of control is to seek local support groups. Try to find groups led by an appropriately trained and experienced professional. Group discussion helps people realize they are not alone in their reactions.

McIntyre recommends professional assistance if the symptoms don’t improve within a few days.

“People should seek consultation any time they are really worried and would like reassurance,” McIntyre said. “If they have symptoms they can’t handle themselves or have a history of previous traumas and feel overwhelmed, they should seek professional help.”