Social Workers Say Trauma of September 11 Creates Long-Term Effects for Many

World Mental Health Day and National Depression Screening Day are good times to see a mental health professional

WASHINGTON—Before the terrorist attacks on the United States, it was estimated that a population the size of Europe represented the numbers of cases of mental illness worldwide. In response to the tragedy, and the escalating war on terrorism, those numbers are growing.

"Many people may feel guilt for being alive, or sad, anxious, and hopeless about what the future may bring, says NASW Executive Director, Elizabeth J. Clark, PhD, ACSW, MPH. "Post-traumatic stress disorder and depression will be common for many Americans. It can occur anywhere from soon after a trauma to more than six months later."

Immediately following the attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon, social workers responded with grief counseling and crisis intervention at companies, hospitals, community mental health centers, in schools, and as part of numerous Red Cross and the Salvation Army emergency assistance teams.

Today, social workers continue to help the nation recover by providing mental health services to those in need. In recognition of World Mental Health Day (Oct 10) and National Depression Screening Day (Oct 11), the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) urges everyone who shows symptoms of depression to attend a free screening in their community. Symptoms could include:

• Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism
• Persistent, sad, anxious, or empty mood
• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness
• Loss of interest or pleasure in ordinary activities
• Decreased energy, a feeling of fatigue

Free screening sites can be found online at www.mentalhealthscreening.org or by calling 1-800-520-NDSD (6373). NDSD is organized by Screening for Mental Health—NDSD.

Organizers for World Mental Health Day (World Federation on Mental Health) also warn that too often bereaved individuals are forced to hide their grief in public and act as though they are ‘back to normal’ on the job. Meaningful work plays an important role in supporting good mental wellness and health. But when unrecognized and untreated, mental illness costs organizations billions of dollars every year in lost productivity, insurance claims and increased absenteeism. The costs of clinical depression alone are said to exceed $47.3 billion annually.

Individuals, families or employers who seek mental health services can find a clinical social worker in their community by searching online at http://www.socialworkers.org/register.

For media: To speak with a clinical social worker about grief and loss issues, or depression in the workplace, please contact NASW Public Affairs at 202-336-8228.

The National Association of Social Workers (NASW), in Washington, DC, is the largest membership organization of professional social workers with 153,000 members. It promotes, develops and protects the practice of social work and social workers. NASW also seeks to enhance the well being of individuals, families and communities through its work and through its advocacy.