"A Visit from the Doctor" By: Ms. Rice

It was important for the students involved in this project to connect with a mentor from the community who would take the time to address their feelings regarding September 11th. We were fortunate to connect with Dr. Rubin, pediatrician and Director of Community Health for the Metropolitan Hospital Outreach Team. He took the time to meet with the students to discuss their reactions from September 11th as well as share his own personal story from the day. He has planned to visit with the students again, and has invited them to present their project the first Thursday in May to the local Comunity Board consisting of politicians and other community leaders. Below is some of the literature and tips he shared to help people cope with September 11th.

The recent events of September 11th have caused people to experience a variety of disturbing emotions and symptoms.

These emotions can be very strong and at times frightening. As time passes, these feelings usually decrease and then disappear.

For some however, perhaps as many as 1 in 5 people, the tragic event can cause chemical reactions in the brain that lead to difficulties functioning.

When this occurs it is caled Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.

Symptoms that may occur in the weeks or months following the tragedy include:
1) Flashbacks and distressing dreams associated with the traumatic event
2) Efforts to avoid thoughts, feelings and activities associated with the trauma
3) Feeling emotionally numb
4) Diminished interest in performing normal tasks or pursuing usual interests
5) Crying uncontrollably
6) Trouble sleeping, anger, difficulty concentrating, exaggerated responses to noise and physical reactions to situations that remind you of the tragedy
7) Feeling guilty about surviving the event
8) Feeling a sense of doom about the future