Coping with Trauma and Resiliency

Yesterday was a tragic day across this nation and for the city of Boston, my hometown. I have attended the marathon and been out in the city during this celebratory occasion. There is a feeling of happiness and comradely that is indescribable. Though it was a tragic event, we must look for the positives. As you watch the news, if you must, remember the words of Fred Rogers’ (Mr. Rogers) mother: “Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.” The first responders yesterday included trained personnel, such as police, doctors, and military, but also untrained civilians responding to those in need.

original image

I, like many of my readers, am a responder too. I am in the schools as a school psychologist. I interact with students, staff, and families who will all be affected by this unfortunate event. I am thankful for the support network I have built through my education and colleagues. I have been flooded with incredible resources that I will share with you here. Please take these and read. Find a way to help other cope, practice self-care, and prepare for the next tragedy that will inevitably, but unfortunately, strike our nation.

• Disaster Distress Helpline (SAMHSA)

Media

• Managing Media Coverage (NASP)
• Dealing with the Media (NASP )
• Talking with Children about the News (PBS)

Coping

• Coping with Disaster (Ready, FEMA)
• Dealing with Explosions (Ready, FEMA)
• Helping Children Cope with Terrorism (NASP)
• Children in Fear of War and Terrorism (NASP)
• Managing Traumatic Stress (APA)
• Helping Children Cope (FEMA)
• Helping Children Cope (NASP)
• Helping Children Cope with Trauma and Ongoing Threat (NASP)
• Talking to Children After Tragedy (Boston's Children's Hospital)
• Coping in Unsettling Times: Tips for Students (NASP)
• Identifying Seriously Traumatized Children (NASP)
• 
  

Emotional Well-Being

• Taking care of your emotional health (Red Cross)
• Managing Strong Emotional Reactions (NASP)

• Recovering Emotionally (Red Cross)
• Building Your Resilience (APA)

Additional resources and resources in other languages can be found here.

As we move forward from this event, focus on the victims, those in need, the first responders. These individuals are the people that need our support and attention. We always believe that justice will make the pain go away, but we will never completely forget or heal. Boston will always have a scar on its heart, as will mine.

original image

“Boston is a tough and resilient town, so are its people. I'm supremely confident that Bostonians will pull together, take care of each other, and move forward as one proud city, and as they do, the American people will be with them every single step of the way. “

                                                        - President Barack Obama 

original image

Stay strong and carry on.

Until next thyme,
Erika