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We Can Help. 914-345-5900 • help@mhawestchester.org |
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Time for ReassuranceTimes of tragedy, whether they are terrorist attacks, war or natural disasters, are times for giving and receiving reassurance. Here are some ways you can help those you love - and yourself. In-Person HelpMHA of Westchester is available for in-person help at our Elmsford and Mt. Kisco offices. We are also available to schools and community groups. Other community agencies are also available throughout Westchester County. Here are the details. Phone Numbers to CallOperated jointly by MHA of Westchester, New York Hospital and St. Vincent’s Hospital, this line is for individuals who are feeling at risk of harming themselves. 914-347-6400 If you need help but it is not a crisis, please: Call us at 914-345-5900, extension 240 Terrorists Aim to Cause Physical and Psychological HarmTerrorist attacks are intended to cause physical and psychological harm. In an age when horrific images of events are immediately broadcast across the nation, many more people than were involved will suffer psychological harm. The tragedies unfolding on September 11, 2001 attack the national psyche, and naturally can cause children and adults to be confused, afraid, angry, or even feel powerless. It is important to acknowledge these feelings but not get stuck in them. People who have suffered trauma in the past are especially vulnerable, and should consider reaching out to a mental health professional. You may reach us by phone at 914-345-5900, extension 240 or by e-mail at help@mhawestchester.org. Stay Calm; Connect With OthersMost of us can fight the feelings of anxiousness, loss and confusion by staying calm and doing what we can to connect with and reassure our friends, family, neighbors and co-workers. In extreme instances, tragedies can trigger, or retrigger, an extremely debilitating condition called Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can occur after exposure to a terrifying event or ordeal in which grave physical harm occurred or was threatened. People with PTSD can experience emotional numbness and sleep disturbances, anxiety, and irritability or outbursts of anger. People who are exposed to trauma-even repeated news coverage of traumatic events-can experience elements of PTSD without having the full blown disorder. Limit Children's and Adults' Viewing of Media ImagesFor this reason, children's and adults' viewing of media images should be limited, and special care should be taken to talk with children and adolescents about their feelings and thoughts following this tragedy. Sometimes, in response to children's questions, adults can reassure them that they are safe and give information that is appropriate to the child's age and maturity. Other Information That May Be HelpfulOur guide to Talking With Children About Difficult Issues may help you as you support the young people in your life. The web site of the National Mental Health Association also has age-appropriate guidelines to help
you discuss this terrorism with children. This information will be found at:
"Coping With Disaster - Tips for Adults" can be found on the National MHA web site at:
Our description of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) will help you identify the warning signs. This page also guides you to how to use our online database of Westchester services to treat PTSD and to other online resources regarding PTSD. The web site of the National Center for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder,
http://www.ncptsd.org, provides extensive resources regarding
PTSD. This federal agency, created in 1989, focuses on research, education and consultation
regarding PTSD.
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