With the shock of the terrorist attacks diminishing, many Americans are now looking for ways to deal with their emotions and come to terms with the horrific events.
At this time, it’s safe to assume that nearly everyone in the United States is suffering from the effects of shock and grief. Some of the physical symptoms people experience as they begin to grieve over traumatic events include fainting, nausea, headaches and stomach problems. Grief can also affect cognitive functions like memory loss, decreased attention span or failure to recognize familiar objects. In addition, people may find themselves having trouble sleeping or eating and experiencing several emotions: fear, anger, guilt, depression and anxiety.
"As an osteopathic physician, I have made a commitment to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms," explains Craig M. Wax, D.O., an osteopathic family physician from Mullica Hill, NJ. "My training and experience provides me with an understanding of the connection between patients’ emotions and their physical feelings."
Dr. Wax recommends the following suggestions as people begin to cope with the stresses generated by the terrorist attacks:
> Express your feelings about the attacks by talking with family, friends, co-workers and your physician. It can be reassuring to hear how other people are coping with the attacks and to see that their reactions may be similar to your own. You can also write your thoughts in a journal.
> Return to your regular routine and activities as quickly as possible. This will help you regain some level of control in your life.
> Keep updated on the issues related to the event by reading the newspapers or watching the news. Staying informed of any related activities can help decrease anxiety. Be sure not to obsess, however, on all the graphic details and media attention. It can seem quite overwhelming.
> Make time to give blood, do volunteer work, community service or make a donation to the relief effort.
> Remember that the way adults react can greatly affect the reactions of children. It’s important to talk to children, listen to them, answer their questions and reassure them that they are safe.
"The feelings we all have experienced, or continue to experience, are normal," says Dr. Wax. "By communicating your feelings and getting back to your normal routine, these feelings and symptoms will soften and fade with time."
