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TIME TO HEAL… All of us have been greatly affected by the September 11th tragedy. To help in this unsettling time, we offer the following suggestions – adapted from the American Psychological Association Website (www.apa.org). More info on the website. • Give yourself time to heal. Anticipate that this will be a difficult time in your life. Allow yourself to mourn the losses you have experienced. Try to be patient with changes in your emotional state. • Ask for support from people who care about you and who will listen and empathize with your situation. But keep in mind that your typical support system may be weakened if those who are close to you also have experienced or witnessed the trauma. • Communicate your experience in whatever ways feel comfortable to you - such as by talking with family or close friends, or keeping a diary. • Find out about local support groups that are led by appropriately trained and experienced individuals. Group discussion can help people realize that other individuals in the same circumstances often have similar reactions and emotions. • Engage in healthy behaviors to enhance your ability to cope with excessive stress. Eat well-balanced meals and get plenty of rest. If you experience ongoing difficulties with sleep, you may be able to find some relief through relaxation techniques. Avoid alcohol and drugs. • Establish or reestablish routines such as eating meals at regular times and following an exercise program. Take some time off from the demands of daily life by pursuing hobbies or other enjoyable activities. • Avoid major life decisions such as switching careers or jobs if possible because these activities tend to be highly stressful. • Become knowledgeable about what to expect as a result of trauma. SOS Newsletter Article, Mental Health Center of Dane County, Inc.
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