Contact:
|
Dacia Morris 212-543-5421 morrisd@pi.cpmc.columbia.edu |
|
ATTACKS ON LONDON’S SUBWAYS MAY INCREASE ANXIETY HERE IN NEW YORK NEW YORK, NY (July 8, 2005)—The shocking early morning attacks that took place in London on Thursday, July 7 as people made their way to work on the city’s subways and buses may translate to fear and anxiety in New York. Questions of “Could it happen here?” and “If them, why not us?” may have some wondering when an attack might come and whether or not New York will be ready to respond appropriately and quickly. Dr. Randall Marshall, Trauma expert and Director of the Trauma Studies Program at the New York State Psychiatric Institute, said “The fact that this event took place in a large city like London may also feed into fears that such an event could likely happen here. For people with PTSD related to 9/11, it could exacerbate symptoms. For persons who were profoundly affected by 9/11 but have since moved on with their lives, this could evoke those old memories and emotions again, and that would be normal in fact. However, I expect that, for the vast majority of New Yorkers, who knew that more of these attacks were going to happen, it is a sad occasion, but not a shocking one, and not an occasion for overwhelming fear. He added that, “An increased police presence in our subways will provide a sense of comfort for many New Yorkers who need to be reassured of their safety at this point. But, it is likely that others will react with a sense of increased anxiety. It is very important, however, that people do not frighten themselves into exaggerating the risks of ordinary daily activities. ” Dr. Marshall's research related to psychological trauma has included the role of trauma in the anxiety disorders, the cause of trauma-related diagnoses, medication, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and the biology and treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Most recently, he is conducting a study that provides treatment for persons with 9/11-related PTSD, of which there are still many thousands in the city. For interviews with Dr. Randall Marshall, please contact the Public Information Office at (212) 543-5421.
|
|