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Helping children cope

Helping children cope


(CNN) -- The first anniversary of September 11 marks a year of intense, often unfamiliar feelings for all of us -- but especially for children.

Psychologists say the images children see on TV may bring back the feelings of helplessness and fear that followed one year ago.

The National Institute of Mental Health gives some suggestions for parents of children who may have been emotionally traumatized.

  • Encourage children to express their feelings, but do not force discussion of the event.
  • Reassure children that you love them and will take care of them.
  • Allow children to cry or be sad. Don't expect them to be tough.
  • Help them feel in control by letting them make their own decisions about things like meals or what to wear.
  • CNN NewsPass VIDEO
    CNN's Dr. Sanjay Gupta takes a look at how children are coping with the September 11 tragedy. (September 12)

    Play video
     

  • Take care of your own mental health, so you can take care of your children.
  • CNN Medical Correspondent Dr. Sanjay Gupta spoke to a child psychologist and seven elementary schoolchildren at the Atlanta International School to find out how they experienced September 11 and how they deal with their fears of terrorism.



     
     
     
     


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