How to Talk to Your Children About Orlando Shooting, Other Violent Events

San Diego County, CA — In the wake of the Orlando nightclub shooting early Sunday that left 50 people dead and as many as 53 people wounded, an official with the County of San Diego Public Health Department offered advice for parents on how to talk to their children about — and cope in general with — violent events.

Parents should be aware of their children’s responses, which can range from anxiety and fear to sadness, and be ready to talk openly about them, according to the county's Deputy Director for Behavioral Health Services, Dr. Piedad Garcia.

"Each child manifests their distress differently," Garcia said. "It has to do with their age and their maturity, and what they see on TV also ... Constant exposure to information about an incident can generate more anxiety."

According to Garcia:

• It’s not essential to provide too many details. Parents should monitor how their children are doing and acknowledge that it’s OK to feel worried and sad.
• Some children may complain of stomach aches, or not want to go to school. They may also want to talk about the incident. These are normal reactions to a stressful situation.
• Limit children’s exposure to news media, smartphones or other sources of news. Hearing updates on the event or other aspects of the case is not helpful as it can create further apprehension for children.
• The media may show distressing images, but parents should emphasize to children that the event has ended and reassure them that they are safe.
• Answer children’s questions simply, without dramatizing the incident.
• Provide perspective to children, explaining to them that these incidents are not a common occurrence.
• Provide emotional support. It may take minutes, hours or even days for the incident to affect children. When it does, provide nurturance (hugs, empathy, kindness, calm support) and ask about their thoughts and feelings.
• Adults should be aware of their own stress levels and try to stay calm. Children look to their caretakers and parents for answers and a sense of security and safety. Adults should talk to another adult about what they’re feeling too.
• Keep doing the day-to-day family activities together. Some children’s sleep, appetite and social interest may be mildly disrupted. If these problems persist more than a few days, contact your family doctor or the County’s Access and Crisis Line at (888) 724-7240.

Mental Health America offers more advice on how to help children cope with tragedy-related anxiety, breaking it down by age group. 

(Image via Pexels Creative Commons)