Exposure to gun violence can have a tremendous impact on a persons’ mental health. Whether you are directly involved in an incident of gun violence, a witness to a shooting, or simply hear about the events on the news, you too can become traumatized or develop symptoms of a mental health disorder.
With horrifying stories of gun violence flooding news headlines around the country, a lot of persons are feeling shocked, fearful, and deeply unsafe. It is therefore important that we keep mental health at the forefront of our conversations about crime due to its impact on our mental wellbeing.
The Department of Behavioral Health Services wishes to advise persons who have been exposed to gun violence to be aware the following symptoms and to reach out for help if you need to:
Physical symptoms
Following a traumatic event, your body can enter a state of hypervigilance and anxiety, with symptoms such as: chest tightness, dizziness, rapid breathing, cold sweats, trembling, and aches and pains. Other physical symptoms include:
- Unfocused thoughts
- Changes in appetite
- Changes in sleep patterns
Emotional symptoms
Emotional symptoms of trauma can encompass all sorts of feelings, ranging from numbness to despair to fury. You may also feel:
- Disbelief
- Persistent fear
- Grief
- Helplessness
- Anger
Symptoms specifically affecting children
The trauma surrounding shootings can have harmful effects on developing minds. Children do not necessarily have to see the violence with their own eyes. Just hearing about it through the media can shatter a child’s sense of safety and affect their mental health.
There is research evidence to support the claim that exposure to gun violence is associated with:
- Withdrawal
- Anger
- Panic attacks
- Depression
- Suicidal ideation
- Learning difficulties
Coping Tips
Although this can all seem overwhelming, you do not have to feel helpless. While reducing gun violence requires a community effort, there are plenty of steps you can take to protect your mental health after traumatic events unfold. You can help yourself, your children and other loved ones cope with the stress and difficult emotions in the aftermath of violence.
Tip #1 Acknowledge difficult feelings
- Be patient with yourself
- Connect with your emotions
- Find healthy ways to express your feelings
Tip #2 Empower yourself
- Learn about the problem
- Find ways to get involved in helping others
Tip #3 Connect with others
- Engage in positive social interactions
- Connect with other survivors
- Enjoy lighthearted outings
Tip # 4 Manage stress
- Explore relaxation techniques
- Reduce exposure to violent media
- Make time for what you enjoy
The Department of Behavioural Health Services is encouraging all persons to take special care of their mental health and to reach out to a mental health professional if your need further assistance.
For more information on gun violence and supporting your mental health, contact the Department of Behavioural Health Services on the following numbers:
– 338-3613 Grand Turk
– 338-3616- Providenciales
https://www.facebook.com/TCIDBHS
https://www.gov.tc/dmhsd/
