Too often acts of mass violence occur in our world. Even if we did not experience the event first-hand, it can impact our mental health as we are viewing it on TV and social media. We want to provide resources and strategies for coping after an act of mass violence occurs.
This may be an email with resources that you save for a time in the future when it could be beneficial, or now may be a time where you find these resources helpful.
Not every strategy will be best suited for you, and that is OK! Make sure to check-in with yourself about what coping strategies would be beneficial for you considering how you are experiencing life after the event.
Strategies for Managing Fears
- Normalize an Increase in Anxiety. It is a normal response to feel more anxious and tense after an act of mass violence.
- Connect with People in your community about your fears, including friends and family. Experiencing a sense of support and universality can help with not feeling alone after the event.
- If you have children, do not avoid tough conversations about the event. Talk with your children about what they know and address any misconceptions/rumors.
- Redirect your fears to action. This could look like volunteering and supporting communities impacted by the event.
Self-Care
- Limit Media Consumption
-
- With the 24-hours news cycle, it is natural to want to keep reading and watching for updates. However, it can inadvertently increase a person’s stress levels. Take a daily 2-3 hour social media/news break.
- Focusing on Your Daily Habits
-
- Focusing on parts of your schedule that you can control is beneficial during this time. This includes eating regularly throughout the day, engaging in nighttime routine, and moving your body.
- Participate in Activities you Enjoy
-
- It may be difficult, but it is OK to have fun during this time and give your brain a break from what is going on around you.
Contact AACA if you are not currently seeing a clinician and would like to set up an appointment.
Resources
For Teens: Coping after Mass Violence
How to Manage Fears After Mass Violence – The New York Times
