PEORIA ( 25News Now ) - Dealing with tragedy at any level impacts not only victims but entire communities. Whether it is local gun violence, natural disasters, or major national events, those impacts can stay with someone for years.

Sept. 11th can be an even bigger trigger for some of that trauma, given that Thursday is the 24th anniversary of the terrorist attacks.

Dr. Barbara Toohill, a local health expert with the Antioch Group in Peoria , said the first step to coping is awareness, as knowing what is going on with oneself and how one is feeling is a start. She said the second step is to talk to someone, whether that be a pastor, counselor, mentor, or therapist.

Additionally, she said those who are dealing with a recurring traumatic event should seek help before it becomes too ha

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