Full Notification

Please see important tips from Santa Barbara Response Network

Many people are still in shock and maybe experiencing strong emotions after the recent shootings in San Bernardino, and our children maybe especially afraid and vulnerable. While media coverage may be informative, it can also be very upsetting and confusing. Media coverage can be especially upsetting for children. As a parent, it is important to help your child minimize their distress as much as possible.

Tips for Helping Children Cope:
o The younger the child, the less exposure the child should have. At your discretion, you may even choose to eliminate all media exposure.
o Ask your child about their thoughts and feelings to better understand their perception
o Talk to your child about the situation and reassure them of their safety
o Be mindful of what you say around your child; he/she may misread something you say.
o Let your child know that many people are concerned and working to resolve the issue.
o Take Care of YOURSELF so that you can better assist your child
Coping Strategies:
• reach out and connect with others,
• talk about the traumatic experience with empathic listeners
• cry
• hard exercise like jogging, aerobics, bicycling, walking
• relaxation exercise like yoga, stretching, massage
• humor
• prayer and/or meditation; listening to relaxing guided • hot baths
• music and art
• maintain balanced diet and sleep cycle as much as possible
• avoid over-using caffeine, sugar,r nicotine or alcohol
• commitment to something personally meaningful and important every day
• hug those you love, pets included
• compassionate responses toward personal friends and family and community - something socially active
The key word is CONNECTION -- ask for help, support and opportunities to talk.
Santa Barbara Response Network (SBRN) a volunteer community organization dedicated to offering psychological first aid and support for resilient recovery from crisis and trauma.
Santa Barbara Response Network (SBRN) at (805)-699-5608.