Coping After a Tragic Event

Community violence has greatly affected the nation, especially the horrific and tragic school shooting that took place in Uvalde, Texas.

Collective trauma is a shared emotional reaction to an event with difficult circumstances and devastating outcomes. People often feel powerless when tragedies occur. You may be experiencing a wide range of emotions, including anger, uncertainty, despair, grief, numbness. Each is a common reaction to collective trauma.

The SupportLinc EAP has multiple resources available for assistance:

• Receive in-the-moment support from a licensed clinician at 1-888-881-5462. Care advocates are available by phone 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
• Check out tip sheets, including Coping in the Aftermath of a Mass Shooting, Dealing with Uncertainty, and Recovering from Disasters or Traumatic Events, which discuss tools you can start using today.
• Explore our library of Flash Courses, including Coping with Civil and Political Unrest, Coping with Grief, and Understanding Anxiety. These short, timely videos offer guidance and tips to manage your feelings.
• Use one of the Resilience Boosters on the SupportLinc web portal (group code: rrd) for a five-minute guided self-care exercise to help you cope, destress and regroup.

In addition to the resources above, SupportLinc can assist children through short-term counseling services with a licensed professional counselor. If you feel your child could benefit from this, please call SupportLinc directly to consult with a care advocate to get started.

Remember, you’re not alone in trying to navigate these challenging circumstances. The SupportLinc EAP offers care, support and help to build coping skills.