Helping Children Deal with the Trauma of School Violence

Every parent, it seems, is dealing with or worried about dealing with a child who may be worried about a shooting occurring at their school or nearby. Don’t feel you are on a road by yourself as you walk through how to have these conversations. Many resources are out there. Let me share my favorites.

Of course the American Psychological Association has vast resources, including a piece specifically written on how to talk to your children about the recent spat of school shootings. In addition, the article gives tips on what to look for when it comes to distressing behavior in kids. The link to crisis resources and hotlines is a must read.

If you have time, read the piece on helping victims of terrorism and mass violence that can be found here on the Department of Justice Office for Victims of Crimes site. These resource are practical and immediate, showing, for example, how to reach hotlines and accessing funding for victim and survivor needs.

Another one of my favorites and less known resources can be found through the Department of Health and Human Services. I’m talking about the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration, or SAMHSA. They have a great article on how to cope with a traumatic situation. It is accompanied by a slew of other resources.

“Emotional distress can happen before and after a disaster. Coping strategies include preparation, self-care, and identifying support systems,” the author’s article notes. “People can experience a wide range of emotions before and after a disaster or traumatic event. There’s no right or wrong way to feel. However, it’s important to find healthy ways to cope when these events happen.”

The article suggests: getting enough good sleep, limit your consumption of news, establish and maintain a routine, avoid making major decisions, and understand there will be changes.

SAMHSA has many, many other great resources, including hotlines for kids and parents. Take a look.