Mental Health Status of WTC tower survivors

This is the first long-term study conducted on one of the most highly exposed 9/11 groups: the people who evacuated buildings. We compared the mental health status of persons who were in the World Trade Center towers, other surrounding buildings, or on the street the morning of the September 11th terrorist attacks. Those in the WTC towers were at increased risk for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and frequent binge drinking 10-years after 9/11. Infrastructure challenges and behavioral challenges experienced during evacuation were significantly associated with PTSD. Infrastructure challenges included the access to stairways and exits. Behavioral challenges included perception of danger, panic, and anxiety. Understanding the effects of challenges to building evacuation on the long-term mental health status of survivors can help in the planning of continuing post-disaster treatment.