The recent school shooting has left many of us grappling with deep emotions—whether we were directly affected or not. Trauma from such events doesn’t only impact the survivors or their families; it ripples out, affecting entire communities and even those of us watching from afar. This is called secondary or vicarious trauma, where we feel a profound sense of grief, fear, and helplessness.
🔗 The Trauma Response:
Even for those not directly involved, witnessing these tragedies can trigger anxiety, feelings of hopelessness, and a sense of loss of control over our own safety and the world around us. It’s natural to feel overwhelmed, disoriented, or even emotionally numb after such horrifying events.
What Can We Do for Ourselves?
🌱 Acknowledge Your Feelings: It’s okay to feel upset, angry, or scared. Recognizing your emotions is the first step toward healing.
🌱 Limit Exposure: While staying informed is important, constant exposure to news coverage can increase anxiety. Take breaks from media and social networks when it becomes overwhelming.
🌱 Seek Support: Whether through family, friends, or professional counseling, don’t isolate yourself. Talking about your feelings can help you process the emotions you’re going through.
🌱 Focus on What You Can Control: While we can’t control these tragic events, we can focus on small, manageable aspects of our daily lives. Create routines and take care of your physical health to regain a sense of stability.
🌱 Practice Grounding Techniques: Engage in mindfulness, meditation, or deep breathing exercises to stay present and calm your nervous system.
At Alssaro Counseling Services, we’re here to help you navigate through this difficult time. Whether you are experiencing direct trauma or feeling the weight of collective grief, our team is ready to support you in your healing journey.
Let’s take care of our mental health, together. 🧠💙
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