Children of 9/11 Loss Face Increased Risk of Heart Disease

Families face many issues after losing a loved one on September 11, 2001. Children, in particular, suffer both psychologically and physically.

Losing a parent creates significant stress in a child’s life, but those who lose a parent because of terrorism or natural disaster have an increased risk of developing health problems, including heart disease, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder, [Dr. Claude] Chemtob’s team found.

Here are some ways to help reduce childhood stress from KidsHealth:

• Proper rest
• Good nutrition
• Make time for your child each day no matter their age.
• Show interest in your child’s life.
• Talk about possible causes of stress and solutions, e.g., fewer extracurricular activities.
• Use books as a way to get children to talk about how they feel.
• Get professional help if your child has serious anxiety or behavioral problems.

The Advocate, September 11, 2006

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