Understanding and Addressing the Emotional Impact of Violence
In the wake of recent tragic events, including the Charlie Kirk shooting and a school shooting in Colorado, many people are grappling with a range of emotions. These incidents have left heavy hearts and raised difficult questions, especially for children who may be exposed to disturbing content online. Mental health professionals emphasize the importance of addressing these feelings rather than suppressing them.
When faced with violence or trauma, it's natural to feel fear, anger, shock, or disbelief. Experts suggest that acknowledging these emotions is crucial. It's okay for children to feel what they're feeling, and creating a safe space for them to express their emotions is essential. Mike Keller, the Suicide Prevention and Outreach Program Director at the Helpline Center, highlights the significance of allowing kids to talk about their feelings without judgment.
Children may have many questions after witnessing or hearing about violent events. They might struggle with their sense of safety or even their own mortality. Keller explains that if a child's emotions become overwhelming or show a significant change from their usual behavior, it may be time to seek professional help. Parents should ask how their child is feeling and be attentive to any shifts in their emotional state.
Dr. David Ermer, a mental health professional, emphasizes the need for honesty and care when discussing these topics. He notes that there is a collective sense of anxiety or unease following recent events. Open conversations about feelings can help individuals process their emotions. As a parent, it's important to monitor what your children are seeing online, as content that may not seem scary to adults could be very frightening to them.
Adults, too, are affected by these events. Dr. Ermer suggests being open about your own reactions and finding positive aspects even in difficult situations. For example, discussing the efforts of first responders and the good people in the community can help reinforce a sense of safety.
Initiating conversations with children about these issues is recommended to ensure they feel safe and supported. Keller advises parents to listen actively and use open-ended questions to encourage discussion. A simple question like, "How is that making you feel?" can open the door for meaningful dialogue.
Avoiding difficult topics like violence can make them seem more daunting. Dr. Ermer warns that keeping such issues secret can amplify their impact. Instead, being open and honest is the best approach.
Grief is another common emotion, especially as the day after these tragedies coincides with the 24th anniversary of the September 11th, 2001 terror attacks. Keller suggests sitting with grief and processing it, even if it's uncomfortable. Research indicates that ignoring grief can lead to negative physical and emotional health consequences.
Mental health professionals also encourage parents to model healthy behaviors. For instance, adolescents may challenge adults about their opinions, and it's important to respond thoughtfully. Dr. Ermer mentions that while disagreements are normal, they shouldn't justify harmful actions.
Beyond emotional discussions, there are practical steps individuals can take to improve their mental health. These include getting enough sleep, spending time outdoors, eating well, socializing, and practicing gratitude. If someone feels their mental health is deteriorating, seeking professional help is strongly advised.
By fostering open communication, modeling healthy responses, and taking proactive steps to support mental well-being, individuals and families can navigate the challenges posed by traumatic events.
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