Tips offered to help adults, kids cope with 9-11 tragedy

The first anniversary of last year's terrorist attacks will be a significant event throughout the country.

During the past year, the nation experienced a renewed sense of pride and patriotism and has grown stronger, many people believe. However, it is important that citizens prepare themselves for the anniversary of that disastrous day, said representatives of the Kern County Sheriff's Department and the county Mental Health System of Care.

While most Americans have overcome their initial reactions to the attacks, the anniversary of the tragedy may reawaken intense feelings in children and adults. The Sheriff's Department and mental health representatives have provided the following suggestions, which may be helpful to some during this difficult time.

Adults should:

try to appear calm and in control in front of children;

tell children the truth and stick to the facts;

limit exposure to the news coverage of the event;

attend a memorial service if it will help through the anniversary, but don't feel obligated to attend events;

monitor stress levels and don't ignore feelings;

Talk to friends, family, religious leaders and others about the anniversary if needed to help deal with it;

do not force anybody to discuss the tragedy if he or she does not want to; and

respect others' feelings and allow them to deal with the anniversary in their own ways.
What parents can do:

focus on children during the week; tell them they are loved and reassure them that they are OK;

talk to children about the event and listen to what they say and how they feel about it;

limit children's exposure to television and other media coverage of the anniversary;

try to maintain a normal routine during the week;

find out if a child's school has any memorial events scheduled, and if it does, make every effort to attend with the child;

spend extra time during the week reading or playing games with children; and

be honest with children if they ask questions.

Remember, people cope with traumatic events in different ways. The 9-11 anniversary is likely to bring back some of the emotions felt when the attacks occurred. Allow friends and family to pay tribute to the victims and heroes of that tragic day in their own ways.

Uploaded September 10, 2002