Editor’s Note: This post has been edited as of February 5, 2020 to reflect updated resources for coping with violence and trauma.
Our hearts go out to the families and friends of those who died in today’s tragic incident in Newtown, Connecticut. The WellPower is a compassionate group of citizens who strive to help others in meaningful ways. Tonight we would like to direct you to some resources that we hope will in some way help you, your family, friends, or other loved ones cope with the violence that took place this morning.
- How to talk to your kids about scary news from NPR
- Coping with violence and traumatic events from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
- Taking care of yourself during times of crisis and trauma from the Jefferson Center for Mental Health
- Tips for talking to children and youth after traumatic events from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
We’d also like to notify you of SAMHSA’s Disaster Distress Helpline. The Disaster Distress Helpline (DDH) is the nation’s first hotline dedicated to providing disaster crisis counseling. The toll-free Helpline operates 24 hours-a-day, seven days a week. This free, confidential and multilingual, crisis support service is available via telephone (1-800-985-5990).