- Many WTC responders still have long-term PTSD symptoms.
- The mental health problem began after the 2001 attacks.
- Researchers used new brain scans to study responders.
- The scans looked at the border of brain tissue.
- People with PTSD showed different brain structure on scans.
- Their gray matter looked more like white matter.
- Differences were linked to re-experiencing symptoms.
- Combining scan markers helped identify responders with PTSD.
- The work comes from WTC health programs and researchers.
Difficult words
- responder — person who helps after an emergencyresponders
- scan — picture of inside the body using machinesscans
- tissue — parts that make up the body
- border — edge between two parts or areas
- re-experiencing — having the same bad memory again and again
- gray matter — brain tissue with nerve cells
- white matter — brain tissue with nerve fibers
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Have you ever seen a brain scan?
- Do you know anyone who works as a responder?
- Would you talk to a doctor about stress after a big event?
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