As schools across the nation have resumed, so has the pervasive fear of gun violence.
Today, most school districts require safety drills to prepare students, staff and faculty for the horrific prospect. The threat the drills anticipated became reality earlier this week when two high school students and two teachers were killed in Apalachee, Georgia in the deadliest US school shooting of 2024. A 14-year-old student has been charged with felony murder in connection with the deaths.
Executive director of the Minnesota Association for Children’s Mental Health Brandon Jones knows firsthand how the fear of gun violence affects teens.
“After a tragic event like the Apalachee High School shooting, parents and caregivers can play a crucial role in supporting youth by providing a safe space for open communication and emotional expression,” says Jones.
A psychotherapist, host of the “It’s Not Your Fault” podcast on the ShelettaMakesMeLaugh.com podcasting platform and father, Jones sees a heightened level of anxiety, panic, worry and depression in young people.
He said their parents and caregivers can play an important role in the aftermath of the disturbing school shooting.
“Encourage teens to share their feelings without judgment to help them process the trauma. It's important to monitor them for signs of distress, such as changes in behavior, mood, or sleep patterns and seek professional support if needed,” he said.
Fear of gun violence is warranted. According to the New England Journal of Medicine, 12 American children die from gun violence every day and another 32 are shot and injured. That’s why Jones thinks that schools, families, and communities should collaborate to provide immediate access to mental health resources.
“It’s crucial to actively listen to their concerns and validate their feelings, without rushing them through the healing process. Trauma-informed approaches should be incorporated, such as offering consistent routines, which can help restore a sense of normalcy,” he said.
Discussions around such horrifying events should be handled with care, Jones advised, with the focus on the child's well-being rather than details of the tragedy.
“When talking about school shootings, parents and caregivers can reduce fear by approaching the conversation with honesty, reassurance, and age-appropriate information,” said Jones.
Schools often offer immediate support through counselors, psychologists, and social workers trained in trauma-informed care. Jones said that giving children and teens knowledge about emergency procedures can empower them. Highlighting the availability of supportive adults, such as teachers, counselors, and police can also provide reassurance.
“Start by asking what the youth already know and how they feel about it, allowing them to express concerns. It's crucial to acknowledge their fears without minimizing them, while also emphasizing the safety measures schools have in place to protect students.”
Jones pointed teens to healthy coping mechanisms like talking to trusted adults, practicing mindfulness, or engaging in activities that promote relaxation, such as hobbies, physical exercise, or spending time with friends.
Many community mental health organizations and faith-based organizations also provide counseling services and support groups. National helplines, such as the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), Crisis Text Line, or the 988 Minnesota Lifeline can offer immediate, confidential support.
For more teen mental health advice, download the “It’s Not Your Fault” podcast hosted by Brandon Jones at ShelettaMakesMeLaugh.com .
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