One Year After
Fran Deats, Faculty and Staff Assistance Program

The anniversary of a tragedy may reawaken a wide range of feelings and reactions. For many people the anniversary date is experienced as a powerful reminder of loss. It is normal to rethink the events of the day a year earlier: what happened, who you were with, loved ones who were lost. Feelings of grief, anger, fear, or anxiety may resurface intensely at this time. Many who survive a tragedy find themselves feeling grateful to be alive, yet guilty that others died. For some, the anniversary may also trigger grief from other personal losses. Others may try to avoid reminders of the anniversary and treat it as an ordinary day, hoping to avoid feelings of grief and loss.

An anniversary may also be a milestone along the path to recovery. It is a time for reflection, a reassessment of values and beliefs, appreciation for the support, love and courage of friends, family and others who have helped with healing.

As we approach the anniversary of September 11^th, we may each consider how we want to commemorate the tragic events. There will be a variety of community gatherings and religious services, opportunities to connect with family or friends in a more private observance, a time for a private ritual, memorial or quiet reflection.

It may be a time to reach out to others, to support those we know are grieving, to share something special with someone you care about, or to help out in some way where there is a need. Jeffrey Mitchell, the President of the International Critical Incident Stress Foundation, reminds us, “Our thoughts and prayers go out to all who are suffering through an anniversary of a loss whether it is the attacks on America or some other painful experience. We hope for healing, peace of mind, and recovery for all who are in pain.”

The Faculty and Staff Assistance Program provides confidential assessment, brief counseling and referrals to help resolve a broad range of personal, work, and family problems. Services are available for all faculty, staff, and family members. Call 545-0350 to make an appointment or for more information.

This article drew on information from the International Critical Incident Stress Foundation.

Resources Available to Campus Community

University Advising Resources
Mental Health Services
Faculty/Staff Assistance Program
Religious Life

UMass Public Radio Remembers
UMass-9/11/01 Archive

Alumni & Staff Lost

Christoffer M. Carstanjen
Geoffrey W. Cloud, ’87
Tara Shea Creamer, ’93
Peter Hashem, ’83
Todd Russell Hill, ’90
John C. Jenkins, ’83
Thomas N. Pecorelli, ’92
Sheryl Lynn (Rosner) Rosenbaum, ’90
David Ellis Rivers, ’83
Jessica Sachs, ’01