In the wakes of more tragedies within the past two weeks - Buffalo, Dallas, Laguna Woods, and now Uvalde - it’s normal to have a variety of feelings.
Shock,
anger,
exasperation,
despair,
sadness,
grief,
frustration,
disappointment,
fear...
All of these and more are common after tragedy which could be minimized or prevented, especially tragedies that target specific groups of people including innocent children.
Additionally, it can be common to feel the above and also experience periods of gratitude and relief if you’ve not been directly impacted. It’s also common to wonder if/when you or someone you love may be impacted by a tragedy such as these.
Any or all of these feelings will come and go, and you may keep cycling through different feelings. No matter what feels are coming up, do your best to recognize them, feel them, and do what you can to take care of yourself.
Engage in self-care.
Write it out.
Lean on your support network.
Talk with a therapist.
Volunteer.
Advocate.
Struggling? Reach out for immediate help. Call 1-800-273-8255 or text START to 741741.