School Shootings
As we look at school shootings it has become so popular now that it’s sad. When parents send their children to school it’s suppose to be a safe space. No parent should ever have to know that their child was murdered at school. No teacher or student supposed to feel that dread and terror that takes over a person in an incident such as this. They are suppose to feel safe when they come to school.
After such an event happens how are those affected are supposed to deal with the trauma. Although people are resilient and often bounce back after difficult times, these events nearly always interrupt our sense of order and safety. The impact often extends to individuals who live far outside of the affected area with no personal connections to the event. This is especially true when the event is human-caused with the intent of harming others. Even counsellors with advanced training can become overwhelmed by the intensity of these tragic events. The ACA provides some tips and resources for counsellors and their clients.
- Attend to self care. While it may seem counterintuitive to think about taking care of yourself first, you cannot be of service to others if you are unstable. Monitor all of your physical health needs – being sure to eat, sleep, exercise, and (if possible) maintain a normal daily routine.
- Pay attention to your emotional health. Remember that a wide range of feelings during these difficult times are common. Know that others are also experiencing emotional reactions and may need your time and patience to put their feelings and thoughts in order.
- Try to recognise when you or those around you may need extra support. It is not uncommon for individuals of all ages to experience stress reactions when exposed (even through media) to shootings or mass violence. Changes in eating and sleeping habits, energy level, and mood are important signs of distress. Watch for regressed behaviours, such as clinging in children and intense emotional reactions, such as anxiety or a strong need for retribution in adults. When necessary, point individuals to licensed professional counsellors who can provide needed support.
- Avoid overexposure to media. While it is important to stay informed, media portrayals of shootings and mass deaths have been shown to cause acute stress and post traumatic stress symptoms. Limit your exposure and take a break from news sources.
- Maintain contact with friends and family. These individuals can provide you with emotional support to help deal with difficult times.
- Focus on your strength base. Maintain practices that you have found to provide emotional relief. Remind yourself of people and events which are meaningful and comforting.
- Talk to others as needed. It is important to ask for help if you are having trouble recovering and everyday tasks seem difficult to manage.
Program Trains Teachers, Students to Deal with School Shootings
Bibliography
Dailey, S. (n.d.). Coping in the Aftermath of a Shooting. Retrieved from https://www.counseling.org/knowledge-center/coping-in-the-aftermath-of-a-shooting
VOA. (2018, January 06). Program Trains Teachers, Students to Deal with School Shootings. Retrieved from https://learningenglish.voanews.com/a/school-shooting-simulation/4192418.html