Small group discussions were held to encourage employees to tell their stories of that day: where they were, what they were doing, what they saw, and what they felt. The discussions allowed people to get other perspectives on what happened.

The EAP counselors discussed the expected reactions to stress and explained that the body and brain have certain natural reactions to unnatural events, such as lack of appetite and sleeplessness. Self-care techniques were also reviewed and encouraged.

EAP counselors are still in the area and are talking with employees that have returned to work. Because each person has a different reaction to tragedy, "Employees need to take it one day at a time and not rush the healing process," says Dorothy Blum, Director, Employee Assistance Program. "We are struggling to regain a sense of normalcy. Acknowledging our changed lives, both at home and at work, is a vital part of the process."

The EAP counselors are also offering discussion groups for Customs employees at Headquarters and elsewhere. There were employees from New York who were on TDY at other locations, employees who traveled to the area for meetings, and employees who do not work at either New York or Washington, D.C., but were stranded when all the airports were shut down. "For a lot of people in New York it will not only be moving to a new building, but dealing with separations from friends they have had lunch with for years, getting used to new traffic patterns, dealing with fears of bridges and tunnels," says Nancy Little-McGuire, Director, Safe Division.

Some employees had other issues that they were dealing with prior to the attack such as personal or family illness, relationship issues, or other personal stresses, and that stress is now compounded.

Employees who are military reservists are wondering how being recalled will impact their incomes and their families, and inspectors and agents are working longer hours than usual with little time off to spend with friends and family.

Confidential and professional assistance The assistance provided to the victims of the September 11 attack on the New York World Trade Center is the same type of confidential and professional assistance that is available to all U.S. Customs employees who are experiencing personal problems that may adversely affect work performance or personal health. EAP counselors are mental health professionals who offer initial assessments, short-term counseling, referral, and follow-up services to Customs employees. Confidential short-term counseling is offered to combat stress and anxiety; depression; alcohol or drug abuse; relationship or family problems; grief; and stress related to financial problems. The EAP encourages employees to take an active role in problem resolution and to make choices that establish and maintain a healthy lifestyle. For confidential assistance or further information about the program, contact the Employee Assistance Program at 202.927.5550, or 1.800.755.7002.