MATC Matters

A note from your Employee Assistance Program (EAP):

The anniversary of the September 11th attack reminds us of the importance to acknowledge grief and distress caused by a previous traumatic event. Anniversary reaction can range from feeling mildly upset for a day or two to a more extreme reaction in which an individual experiences significant psychiatric or medical symptoms. People may relive the experiences as if it just happened.

What a person can expect to feel will be based on a number of factors. Common anniversary reaction symptoms are: grief and sadness, trouble sleeping, poor concentration, intrusive images or memories and difficulty relaxing. An anniversary reaction may be more acute if an individual was directly exposed to a traumatic event. Also, people with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder or other mental health problems may also exhibit stronger anniversary reactions.

Most people will feel better within a week or two after the anniversary of a traumatic event or loss. Over time the stress symptoms tend to decrease in both frequency and severity. Many people find it helpful to plan an anniversary day in advance so that they have other things to occupy their times besides thinking about the event. Some may choose to implement some sort of commemorative ceremony such as visiting a grave, making a charitable donation, giving blood, helping others or dedicating the day to spending time with family.

For those individuals for whom a stress response continues to persist, good help is available through your EAP. You can contact your EAP at 800‑3602‑3902 ext. 1310, or for more information about your EAP, visit MATC Benefits.

Reference: A National Center for PTSD fact sheet by Jessica Hamblem, Ph.D.; Matt Friedman, M.D., Ph.D.; and Paula Schnurr, Ph.D.

This information is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Please consult your physician with any concerns you might have regarding this information.