Web Resources for Coping With Terrorist Attacks

The recent terrorist tragedies have been emotionally traumatic for many Americans. It is often difficult for people to cope with a sense of loss or helplessness brought on by any disaster, including a terrorist attack. There are a number of reputable organizations, such as the American Psychological Association, that offer recommendations on their Web sites for coping in this time of difficulty. Below are a few such Web resources.

American Psychological Association

Psychology in Daily Life: Coping With Terrorism: This two-page fact sheet covers issues such as Who Is Affected?, What You May Experience Following a Terrorist Attack, and Coping With the Trauma. It also includes tips on helping children cope with these issues. It was written in conjunction with two psychologists who have studied the social stress of terrorism.

Psychology in Daily Life: Coping With the Aftermath of a Disaster: This two-page fact sheet is a question-answer format with John Tassey, PhD, a psychologist and member of the APA's Disaster Response Network who counseled those affected by the Oklahoma City terrorist attack.

Psychology in Daily Life: Managing Traumatic Stress: Tips for Recovering From Disasters and Other Traumatic Events: This four-page fact sheet was written after the September 11 attacks and includes What happens to people after a disaster or traumatic event?, How do people respond differently over time?, How should I help myself and my family?, and How do I take care of children's special needs?.

Psychology in Daily Life: Reactions and Guidelines for Children Following Trauma/Disaster: This seven-page guide is specifically for helping children cope with disaster. It includes possible reactions of children in kindergarten and elementary school, middle-school children, and high-school youth, plus guidelines for parents and caregivers.

American Academy of Pediatrics

AAP Offers Advice on Communicating with Children about Disasters: This one-page document offers a few bulleted suggestions for helping children cope, plus links to more information.

American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry

Helping Children After a Disaster: This two-page fact sheet describes common reactions of children after a disaster and changes in a child's behavior that parents should look for.

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