It is estimated that up to 100,000 people were involved in the aftermath of the World Trade Centre terrorist attacks.
Of these it was estimated that 11% met criteria for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, 9% for Depression, 5% for Panic Disorder and 62% for substantial stress reaction. Functional impairment in occupational, social and family life as well as alcohol problems was also found.
It is essential to consider the mental health of disaster workers and to implament early screening and treatment programs as quickly as possible.
PTSD is an extreme anxiety response following a traumatic event such as sexual or physical assault. Syptoms of PTSD include recurrent thoughts of the traumatic event, flashbacks, nightmares, avoiding reminders of the incident, emotional numbing as well being easily startled and highly vigilant. PTSD can be a very disabling condition and can affect relationships, work and physical health and once chronic requires specialist treatment.
If you suspect that you are suffering from PTSD as a result of a recent criminal act contact Victims of Crime Counselling Services for treatment.