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How to help your child process tragedies

With school shootings becoming so common, it begs the question: "How do we deal with so much tragedy and make sure children have the tools necessary to process it?"

(KTHV) - They're the images that have become all to familiar -- images of students running from classrooms as first responders descend on U.S. school campuses.

Friday's shooting at Santa Fe High School outside Houston is at least the 20th U.S. campus shooting in 2018, according to a USA Today report.

"The pain that they are going through right now and the fear -- it's heartbreaking," said Michael Proveaux, risk manager and social worker at Youth Home Inc.

With school shootings becoming so common, it begs the question: "How do we deal with so much tragedy and make sure children have the tools necessary to process it?"

"A large portion of the public definitely appear to be desensitized because in the beginning you have the initial shock and outrage and the mobility to make things happen and then it does kind of dissipate over time," said Proveaux.

The American Counseling Association said events like the Santa Fe shooting can often interrupt our sense of order and safety.

Among the tips the organization provide for coping are:

  • Attend to self-care
  • Pay attention to your emotional health
  • Try to recognize when you or those around you may need extra support
  • Avoid overexposure to media
  • Maintain contact with friends and family
  • Focus on your strength base
  • Talk to others as needed

"I think it's important for parents to not only have discussions for those whose children are asking questions and are wanting answers, but important to pay attention and watch for warning signs that maybe they need professional help," Proveaux said.

He said conversation will vary based on a child's age, but parents should focus on sticking to the facts and validating their child's feelings about the situation.

"Definitely remember to try to reassure them that there are a lot of people around them that are trying to keep them safe: people at school, teachers, school officials, resource officers," he said.

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