I live in South West DC, not far from where the active shooter situation in the Navy Yard has been unfolding today. Like many of us here on GovLoop, I have friends that work and live in the Navy Yard and nearby buildings. To be honest, I’m a little stressed out and I know I’m not alone.
When something like this happens, it brings up a lot of strong emotions and it’s important for us take care of ourselves and each other and take advantage of support resources available.
I’m not a trauma expert but I have consulted a friend who runs a city-wide response and recovery program for situations like this. Here are his top 3 tips tips for us to take care of ourselves and each other:
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Drink lots of water (avoid alcohol)
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Talk about how you are feeling with friends
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Reach out to others and check in with them
IMPORTANT: If you or someone you know is experiencing a psychological or medical emergency, please visit your nearest hospital or health center, or dial 911.
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Resources:
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SAHMSA Disaster Distress Helpline (1-800-985-5990) is staffed 24/7 by trained and caring professionals from crisis counseling centers in the network who can provide immediate counseling to anyone needing help in dealing with the aftermath of this tragedy. This free, confidential, and multilingual crisis support service is also available via SMS (text TalkWithUs to 66746). The Helpline staff provide confidential counseling, referrals, and other support services.
Consider sharing how you are feeling and how you are taking care yourself and others by leaving a comment.
Here is another great resource from the American Psychological Association on managing traumatic stress.
Here is a resource about Talking to Children about Shootings from National Child Traumatic Stress Network.
Good advice. Simple – and straightforward. Nothing like common sense to deal with unexpected problems. Gabe
Children’s National Medical Center just posted a great resource on how to talk to children about disasters to their facebook page.
The Boston Public Health Commission offers Healing from Trauma guides in multiple languages. Scroll to the bottom of the page.