The terrorist attacks on America that have come to be known simply as “9/11” bear some of the most graphic news footage in history. Modern technology, cable news, and smartphones made it possible to share these horrific events in real-time with people across the globe. Shocking videos of these atrocities can still be watched anytime we choose, but they are hardest to escape on the anniversary.
September 11 affected everyone. But no one could truly appreciate what that day was like better than New Yorkers who experienced it firsthand. Being in the towers, getting stuck wherever you were, breathing in the smoke, desperately trying to reach loved ones on New York’s overloaded cell phone network, or, worst of all, losing someone in the collapse — these events hit closest to home for the millions of people who call the New York metropolitan area home.
If you live here, you either lost someone on 9/11 or you know someone who did. I was one of the lucky ones who didn’t lose anyone close to me, but in my social work practice I have treated many clients who did. So every year, I cry. Every single September 11, I feel a bit haunted by the pervasive news coverage that undoubtedly includes images of our beautiful skyline engulfed in flames. Because here, we didn’t just see the towers fall on television. We watched them fall right before our eyes.
So how do we process traumatic news events like this? Memories of September 11 involve feelings of both grief and trauma. The treatment for both of these experiences never calls for complete denial, but instead often includes gradual exposure to memories or stimuli. For example, people affected by PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) are often encouraged to make a deliberate approach to memories in order to promote emotional processing. Whether we choose total news avoidance or facing memories in small doses, it’s important for each individual to decide what feels best for him or her.
If you find that reading the transcript of Brian Sweeney’s voice mail to his wife Julie makes you feel depressed, limiting your time on social media on September 11 may be your best option. If you feel cable news sensationalizes the memories too much, you may want to limit your news intake on 9/11 to only reading digital or print. Following your gut can help you filter the news to meet your own personal emotions.
If you’re like me, you might feel that thinking about some of that day is cathartic. Every September 11, I may listen to the names being read on the radio, or stand outside at night to look at the Tribute in Light beams shine where the Twin Towers once stood. I sometimes think about the incredibly blue sky and perfect weather I vividly remember noticing early that morning right before the attacks. But whatever memory I choose, at some point in my day, I shed what I feel are healthy tears. They’re needed tears that remind me to process something major I witnessed in my life.
If for you September 11 brings more ongoing depression than one day of heavy memories, it may be wise to seek professional treatment. But if you simply experience some strong emotions on this day, you’re definitely not alone. Remember to allow yourself some space to feel your feelings and choose the type and amount of news exposure that feels best for you.
Photo: J. David/AP
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