WTC Records Folder 0128 Disaster Information General label, 2001

NYC 9/11 Public Portal Document

American Red Cross in Greater New York

AFTER THE DISASTER

The following common, normal reactions may be experienced:

Disorientation to time, place Difficulty concentrating, remembering things Difficulty making decisions Feelings of helplessness/being overwhelmed Agitation/anger Moodiness/irritability/emotional outbursts Hyperactivity Numbness/feeling withdrawn or disconnected Loss of/increased appetite Increased use of caffeine, alcohol or drugs Memory problems Difficulty stopping thoughts/"flashbacks" of the disaster Heightened startle reflex Fear/disbelief Trouble sleeping Nightmares/constant fatigue Headaches Panic attacks (shortness of breath, increased heart rate) Skin disorders/rashes Nausea/vomiting/diarrhea/constipation, or other gastro-intestinal symptoms Sadness/apathy Being tearful or crying for no apparent reason Pacing the floor Grinding of teeth Need for information Lack of involvement in/enjoyment of everyday activities Guilt/self-blame Changes in sexual desire or functioning

Some suggestions to help you cope during this time:

- Try to take care of yourself; recognize that you have experienced great stress and try to be gentle and patient with yourself - Make time for yourself; focus on task-centered activities; this is essential to the healing process - Try to keep as normal a schedule as possible; take frequent breaks, alternating times of activity with times for rest and relaxation - Prioritize; make "to do" lists of things that must be done; put other tasks on a "wait" list - Set realistic short-term goals and, when possible, delegate duties and responsibilities to others - Set limits for yourself; you may want to learn/use some relaxation/stress reduction techniques - Eat well-balanced meals, even if you don't feel like it; increase fluid intake; decrease use of caffeine and do not abuse alcohol or drugs - Try to be aware of your feelings; don't be afraid to experience them and talk about them - Try to get plenty of rest; there may be temporary changes in your sleep patterns - Use your support systems — family, friends, colleagues, clergy - Be willing to ask for and accept the concern and help of others - Try to decrease environmental stress such as noise and clutter

If you would like to speak to a mental health professional, contact your local Red Cross chapter, the Department of Mental Health, or your insurance carrier for referrals. For emergencies, go to the nearest Emergency Room.

The toll-free number for the American Red Cross in Greater New York is 1-877-RED CROSS.

NYC-WTC 000137351