I found myself glued to the television as clips of an attempted assassination on former President Trump flashed across the screen. My heart raced with disbelief and uncertainty. As I stood frozen, shocked by what I'd just witnessed, my thoughts quickly turned to the thousands of children and teens who had seen this same footage. How were they feeling? What are they thinking? How do we, as parents, mental health professionals and educators, assist children in processing the current climate of violence while helping them feel safe and protected after witnessing such a traumatic event?
Children process and respond to traumatic events differently than adults. They may experience a range of emotions, from confusion and fear to anger and sadness. Recognizing these reactions is the first step in helping them cope. Signs of distress may include:
Initiating a conversation about such disturbing and frightening event may seem daunting, but it's crucial. Here are some tips to guide you:
Create a Safe Environment. Ensure that........