A survey of New Yorkers after the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks

Abstract

Objective: This study examined the prevalence of psychiatric symptoms among residents/workers in Manhattan 3-6 months after the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.

Method: A total of 1,009 adults (516 men and 493 women) were interviewed in person throughout Manhattan. All answered questions about themselves before and after September 11 that included their emotional status.

Results: A total of 56.3% had at least one severe or two or more mild to moderate symptoms. Women reported significantly more symptoms than men. Loss of employment, residence, or family/friends correlated with greater and more severe symptoms. The most distressing experiences appeared to be painful memories and reminders; dissociation was rare. Only 26.7% of individuals with severe symptoms were obtaining treatment.

Conclusions: Over half of the individuals had some emotional sequelae 3-6 months after September 11, but the percent was decreasing. Only a small portion of those with severe responses was seeking treatment.