As the
anniversary of a disaster or traumatic event approaches,
many survivors report a return of restlessness and fear.
Psychological literature calls it the anniversary
reaction and defines it as an individual's response to
unresolved grief resulting from significant losses. The
anniversary reaction can involve several days or even
weeks of anxiety, anger, nightmares, flashbacks,
depression, or fear. On a more positive note, the
anniversary of a disaster or traumatic event also can
provide an opportunity for emotional healing.
Individuals can make significant progress in working
through the natural grieving process by recognizing,
acknowledging, and paying attention to the feelings and
issues that surface during their anniversary reaction.
These feelings and issues can help
individuals develop perspective on the event and figure
out where it fits in their hearts, minds, and lives.
It is important to note that
not all survivors of a disaster or traumatic event
experience an anniversary reaction. Those who do,
however, may be troubled because they did not expect and
do not understand their reaction. For these individuals,
knowing what to expect in advance may be helpful.
Common anniversary reactions
among survivors of a disaster or traumatic event
include:
Memories, Dreams, Thoughts, and
Feelings: Individuals may replay memories, thoughts, and
feelings about the event, which they can't turn off.
They may see repeated images and scenes associated with
the trauma or relive the event over and over. They may
have recurring dreams or nightmares. These reactions may
be as vivid on the anniversary as they were at the
actual time of the disaster or traumatic event.
Grief and Sadness: Individuals
may experience grief and sadness related to the loss of
income, employment, a home, or a loved one. Even people
who have moved to new homes often feel a sense of loss
on the anniversary. Those who were forced to relocate to
another community may experience intense homesickness
for their old neighborhoods.
Fear and Anxiety: Fear and
anxiety may resurface around the time of the
anniversary, leading to jumpiness, startled responses,
and vigilance about safety. These feelings may be
particularly strong for individuals who are still
working through the grieving process.
Frustration, Anger, and Guilt:
The anniversary may reawaken frustration and anger about
the disaster or traumatic event. Survivors may be
reminded of the possessions, homes, or loved ones they
lost; the time taken away from their lives; the
frustrations with bureaucratic aspects of the recovery
process; and the slow process of rebuilding and healing.
Individuals may also experience
guilt about survival. These feelings may be particularly
strong for individuals who are not fully recovered
financially and emotionally. Avoidance: Some survivors
try to protect themselves from experiencing an
anniversary reaction by avoiding reminders of the event
and attempting to treat the anniversary as just an
ordinary day. Even for these people, it can be helpful
to learn about common reactions that they or their loved
ones may encounter, so they are not surprised if
reactions occur.
Remembrance: Many survivors
welcome the cleansing tears, commemoration, and
fellowship that the anniversary of the event offers.
They see it as a time to honor the memory of what they
have lost. They might light a candle, share favorite
memories and stories, or attend a worship service.
Reflection: The reflection
brought about by the anniversary of a disaster or
traumatic event is often a turning point in the recovery
process. It is an opportunity for people to look back
over the past year, recognize how far they have come,
and give themselves credit for the challenges they
surmounted. It is a time for survivors to look inward
and to recognize and appreciate the courage, stamina,
endurance, and resourcefulness that they and their loved
ones showed during the recovery process. It is a time
for people to look around and pause to appreciate the
family members, friends, and others who supported them
through the healing process. It is also a time when most
people can look forward with a renewed sense of hope and
purpose. Although these thoughts, feelings, and
reactions can be very upsetting, it helps to understand
that it is normal to have strong reactions to a disaster
or traumatic event and its devastation many months
later. Recovery from a disaster or traumatic event takes
time, and it requires rebuilding on many levels -
physically, emotionally, and spiritually. However, with
patience, understanding, and support from family members
and friends, you can emerge from a disaster or traumatic
event stronger than before.
If you are still having trouble
coping, ask for help. Consult a counselor or mental
health professional.
Source: National Mental
Health Information Center of the U.S. Dept. of Health
and Human Services
If you need help finding a
professional, please contact New River Valley Community
Services at 540-961-8400 or the Mental Health
Association of the New River Valley at 540-951-4990.
