The Anniversary Effect - What it is and How to Cope
The anniversary effect refers to experiencing grief, loss or trauma before and
around the anniversary of a significant event. Individuals might feel restless or
on edge, experience symptoms of PTSD, have trouble sleeping, feel depressed,
or even become physically ill. Various situations can trigger this response, such
as a death, miscarriage, accident or assault.
The anniversary effect is a collection of disturbing feelings, thoughts, and/or
memories that can occur on or around the anniversary of a traumatic event. This
phenomenon commonly affects those with PTSD or those who have lost a loved
one, such as a parent or grandparent.