CLEVELAND — Whenever we have mass shootings, the images are everywhere -- and it can really take a toll on your mental health.
You might think the only people affected are those who were there or have some direct involvement. But, that's not the case. In fact, experiencing post traumatic stress disorder(PTSD ) in these situations is actually very normal.
And seeing these scenes over and over again can be particularly problematic for kids.
Dr. Lolly McDavid, Director of Advocacy & Protection at University Hospitals Rainbow Babies & Children's Hospital says, "Little kids don't understand that a clip they see is the same clip they saw a half hour ago. That’s why she believes limiting media exposure can be good for everyone.
Kids may become afraid to go to public places because that's where the recent shootings occurred. They may also become clingy, aggressive or depressed after being exposed to that kind of violence.
It’s why, when a Streetsboro teen shot and killed his younger brother last year, professionals with the Portage County Mental Health & Recovery Board handed out informational pamphlets to the schools, so they could recognize signs of any problems. "If somebody mentions they are going to harm themselves or harm other people it's important to take them seriously," said Karyn Hall, who is from the agency.
Grief counselors were also called in after the 2012 Chardon shootings to help teachers and families deal with the fallout.
Kelly Jordan, whose son attended Chardon high school said, "He did act out a little a couple of days after. And we kind of talked together with my husband.”
And talking about your feelings is key. Dr. McDavid says, “If you don't have the language to talk to them, it's OK to go online to look for things that help you. You can also talk to your friends about how they talk to their kids."
Allowing your kids to help the victims, can also help them. She says drawing pictures or sending cards can be cathartic.
But if you still sense trouble with them, or yourself, speak to a professional.
"Adults feel they are supposed to cope with everything. You can't cope with everything. And it's OK to ask for help," she says.
Despite counseling patients herself, Dr. McDavid pointed out how difficult it was for her, when she went to Pittsburgh after the Synagogue shootings seeing all the families and memorials. “Even parents get fatigued. I get fatigued," she told us.
Your primary doctor or pediatrician can recommend a mental health provider. The Federal Government also has a disaster Distress Helpline which offers 24/7 crisis counseling and emotional support to those in need. To access that line, call 1-800-985-5990 or text "TalkWithUs" to 66746.