I’ve been really disturbed and depressed ever since I saw the images of the after-effects of Katrina on TV. I can’t seem to stop watching TV and I feel guilty because my family and I are OK. Can something I didn’t actually go through make me down?
– Traumatized by KatrinaYes Traumatized, you can be affected by traumatic events from around the world without directly experiencing them.
Today’s technology allows us to experience tragedies in a way that was not possible even 10 years ago. The Internet and cell phones have given us new avenues into experiencing disasters like Katrina. Combine these tools with modern satellite and broadcast capability and we can see what disaster victims are experiencing in real time.
This increased accessibility provides the opportunity for better understanding and empathy for disaster victims. Unfortunately, negative symptoms can come along with increased understanding and empathy.
In the last few years the term “compassion fatigue” has been coined to describe what caregivers may experience when dealing with victims of traumatic events. Typically, this might apply to police and fire officers, physicians and nurses, or counselors and psychologists. However, this term can also be applied to those exposed to disasters and their after-effects through the media.
You may have also heard of the term “survivor guilt.” While this usually refers to someone directly involved in a traumatic event, it can apply to some degree to those far removed from the event. In the aftermath of Katrina, some people have reported feeling guilty about the relief they feel at not being directly affected by the disaster. Others report even feeling guilty about going on with their normal daily activities.
Some people have also expressed anger about the possibility that many of the ill effects of Katrina could have been prevented. Others may feel angry at God or nature that such a catastrophic storm hit a populous area. Regardless of the source of the anger, it can be difficult to deal with.
Since the storm, some have also reported feeling helpless. The Doc has heard some people say that they want to help but don’t know how. This is a normal reaction to a disaster. Often when we feel we are contributing to a solution, the problem seems less immense.
There are some things you can do to make a difference. Donate funds, food or other items. Offer to volunteer to read to kids, or help out otherwise at a local shelter for hurricane victims. Go to the Katrina information section on the ETSU web site for ideas on how you can help.
A traumatic event like Katrina can also bring to mind losses that individuals have experienced. Someone who has lost a beloved person or pet may be reminded of that loss by the suffering they see others experiencing because of Katrina.
If the impact of Katrina is impacting your sleep patterns, making you feel overwhelmed, or leading to feelings of guilt, sadness, numbness, anger or anxiety, it’s OK to turn off the TV coverage and focus on more routine activities.
Sometimes that may be all it takes to get back to normal.
If these feelings persist however, consider seeing a counselor to find out how you can start feeling better.
The ETSU Counseling Center offers free, confidential counseling for students.Call 439-4841, or visit the office during walk-in hours Monday thru Thursday from 10 a.m.-noon or 2 p.m.-4 p.m.
Do you have a question for The Doc Is In?
Visit www.etsu.edu/students/counsel/thedocisin.htm to post an anonymous question that will be addressed either on the web site or in a future issue of the East Tennessean.

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