The following resources are offered as a starting point to attend and respond to the emotional and mental health needs of children and young adults in the wake of violence and tragedy. While it is understood that these resources do little to ease the pain, fear and sadness that everyone is experiencing, they offer ways to support and engage with children, schools and communities in these difficult and uncertain moments. Beyond all of these, and other resources, it is important for all children to know that they are loved and that everyone is here for them, even when the adults might not have all of the answers.
Specific to Gun Violence:
- National Association of School Psychologists: Talking to Children About Violence: Tips for Parents and Teachers
- Child Mind Institute:
- American School Counselors Association: Helping Students After a School Shooting
- American Psychological Association: Helping your children manage distress in the aftermath of a shooting
- National Center for School Mental Health: Supporting Students, Staff, Families, and Communities Impacted by Violence
- The National Child Traumatic Stress Network: School Shooting Resources and Parent Guidelines
- Center for Resilience and Well-Being in Schools: Talking to Children When Scary Things Happen
- Safe and Sound Schools:
Crisis Information:
- NY HOPELine – The HOPEline number is 1-877-846-7369. You can also TEXT 467369 to receive the same confidential services 24/7
- NYS Office of Mental Health Crisis Prevention – Crisis Text Line – TEXT GOT5 to 741741 for anonymous 24 hour text line support
SMHRTC Resources:
Family Education Webinar Series (free archived webinars and resources)
- Related to topic: Grief and Loss: Helping Youth Heal, Trauma 101 for Families and Caregivers, Coping with a Crisis (English and Spanish), Uplifting Black Joy, Using Positive Psych to Manage Stress in Children, Becoming a Resilient Family, Managing Stress with a Wellness Mindset
