Mental Health Support in Light of Recent Tragedies
Terrible acts of violence in nearby communities remind us of our connectedness. Our hearts go out to the victims, families, and communities impacted. Increased stress and feelings of fear, panic, loss, grief, or guilt are common and can emerge days or weeks after violence occurs. If you or a loved one is in need of emotional support, you are not alone and help is available. This community update provides a range of resources available. Challenging times like these are an opportunity to reach out to a neighbor, family member, or friend.
Coping in the Aftermath of a Shooting
The American Counseling Association provides the following tips and resources.
- Practice Self Care: You can’t help others if you are unstable. Pay attention to your physical and emotional health.
- Recognize when you or others need extra support: Stress reactions are normal, but it’s important to be aware when additional support is needed. Licensed professional counselors can help.
- Avoid Overexposure to media: While it is important to stay informed, too much violent media can cause harmful psychological symptoms. Limit your exposure when needed.
- Stay Connected: Your community can help support you during difficult times.
- Focus on Strength: Maintain practices that are helpful for you and remember people and events that provide meaning and comfort.
- Talk to Others: Ask for help when you need it.
They also offer online resources to help guide conversations with children about gun violence. Learn more here.
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration shares details about who is most at risk for emotional distress from incidents of mass violence and where to find disaster-related resources. Support information is provided in several languages. Learn more here.
Additional Support & Resources
Additional resources and links to local, state and national organizations providing support are available below.
Youth & Family Resources
Project Safety Net provides a list of mental health resources for youth and families including a crisis text line, information about local counseling and support groups, reading materials, and more.
The Children’s Health Council is a local organization offering Teen Therapy Services. Get a free 30-minute consultation for teens or explore group and family counseling services.
Learn more about how to conduct age-appropriate conversations by listening to Talking with Kids about Violence with Audrey Schield.
Other Tools & Crisis Resources
CalHope offers free non-emergency crisis counseling via phone call and instant message, plus additional resources.
The American Psychological Association provides tools and guidance to help those who are suffering distress as a result of shootings, including resources to guide conversations with children about gun violence.
The Suicide & Crisis Lifeline can be reached by calling 9–8–8. Callers will be connected to trained counselors who will listen, provide support, and connect callers to resources.
The Veterans Affairs (VA) Crisis Line is a free, confidential resource that’s available to anyone, even if you’re not registered with VA or enrolled in VA health care, to reach caring, qualified responders with the Department of Veterans Affairs in times of crisis. Many of them are Veterans themselves. To connect, dial 9–8–8, then press 1.
More Helpful Links
Connect with the City to stay Informed.
Stay Connected and Find Local Events on the City Calendar.
Find Local Information and Resources here.
Learn more about a recent incident impacting our sibling city Bloomington Indiana here.
