Talking to Teens About School Shootings and Shooting Threats
Last week (Sept 5), two students and two teachers were killed, and nine were injured during a mass school shooting at Apalachee High School near Winder, Georgia. And just yesterday, (Sept 11) potential threats of a shooting at schools in Albany, Cottage Grove, and Salem were circulating across social media in those communities.
Whether they come to fruition or not, threats of violence impact the mental health of young people. Youth might feel activated – worried, scared, angry, confused, or all of the above. While school districts, communities, and adults in youths’ lives continue to talk about this ongoing national issue, there are important ways we can support youth mental health through it.
Make space, validate, and listen
As an adult, it’s tempting to jump into problem-solving mode when news of a shooting or a threat of a shooting reaches the community. Instinct might be to dismiss it. “It will never happen here,” or “don’t worry about it” are things we say sometimes in hopes that it will relieve a young person. However, that dismissal can often make youth feel invalidated – that their feelings aren’t real, and that they’re on their own while processing what’s happening.
Instead, make space for a conversation. Ask what they’re hearing from friends and community members. Ask how they’re feeling. And then let them lead the discussion. Listen. And remind them that you care. “I’m here with you” and “I’ve got you” can go a long way.
Until teens (and adults) come out of that state of feeling activated with fear or anger, they can’t necessarily hear solutions or discern correct information.
Practice critical-thinking skills together
Today’s youth are growing up more connected to information than ever before. Monitor your youth’s information consumption, but don’t cut access off completely. Instead, work together to research and identify any false information. Use this as an opportunity to practice critical-thinking skills and find accurate sources of information about what’s happening at schools. Afterward, take breaks from the news when you need.
Consider the bigger picture with them
Encourage a broader discussion about why school shootings or threats of shootings happen in the United States. What laws could impact them from happening? What resources are needed to support youth before, during and after? How can they get involved with helping their community feel safer? Get involved in their conversation by doing research and connecting with organizations working to end gun violence.
Keep calm and care
It’s a balance between staying informed and getting caught up in false information. Lead by example by staying calm while you’re learning about the situation.
And then, do you best to reassure young people. Remind them that they’re loved, and you do our best to protect them – every day.
Need a couple of places to learn about the current state of school gun violence? Here are two places to start.