Scandinavia 9/11 - lessons learnt and ways forward

Abstract

This article focuses on the health and mental health effects of mass violence in Scandinavia as a result of the terrorist attacks in United States on 9/11. First, in the immediate aftermath of terror acts, survivors who directly experience violence commonly experience acute stress reactions. These psychological reactions are completely normal but may become chronic and lead to impairments in school functioning and work and negatively influence personal relationships. Secondly, one can not underestimate the resilience of individuals and communities while emphasizing people's vulnerabilities after trauma. Finally, this tragedy like all similar tragedies demands social justice. When mass violence occurs there is damage not only to individuals but to entire societies, indeed the world. As a consequence healing must occur not only within individuals but also within societies, with society as the healing agent. The society can help heal the survivors but the survivors can also heal the society through their trauma narratives and demonstrated resiliency. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2012 APA, all rights reserved)