COVID-19 posing unique challenges for those with post-9/11 trauma

JUPITER, Fla., May 19, 2020 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- The pandemic is bringing up many frightening feelings in people, but those experiencing some of the worst anxiety are 9/11 survivors. The issues COVID-19 brings up are similar to the trauma people experienced due to Sept. 11, South Florida psychotherapist Jennifer Tomko, LCSW says.

Tomko says while a terrorist attack and a pandemic are very different, the sense of powerlessness is the same. "There are many factors that are out of everyone's control," says Tomko. "Witnessing patients suffer with sickness and losing their battle with Coronavirus is negatively impacting the mental state of frontline workers, as was made evident by the reported suicide of an ER doctor in New York." Many people enter the medical and emergency response fields because it is in their nature to help, cure, and fix. Tomko says when they are unable to do so, they can experience depression, anxiety, and PTSD, to name just a few common mental health issues.

Additionally, from inhaling all of the toxic air and fumes in Manhattan, many 9/11 survivors suffer from respiratory conditions and lung disease. This puts them at a higher risk for COVID-19 being fatal if contracted, further adding to their anxiety levels.

Tomko is certified by the World Trade Center Health program Elite E-Counseling, LLC. She and a 9/11 survivor are available for broadcast, print, and digital interviews to discuss the similarities between both traumatic events. Tomko has appeared on WPTV and WPEC in West Palm Beach and has been interviewed by Woman's Day, Thrive Global, and Medium.

SOURCE Jennifer Tomko, LCSW