Another act of Terrorism…How do we cope?

Is it another act of Terrorism? How do we cope?

You are going through everyday life until suddenly you become aware of a horrific act of violence, like the recent shooting in Las Vegas. A history making record of 58 people dead and several hundred others wounded. But just as important will be the several millions affected emotionally by this unspeakable and illogical event in our modern times.

Many of us initially react with shock and disbelief as the news footage rolls with video after video of the carnage and suffering, as if it was a Hollywood horror movie. It is easy to become overwhelmed and want to learn as much as you can about this tragic event, while others may turn away and avoid the news and buzz of social media. This is one of the many atrocities, yet one can become numb to all the violence. Finally, before the dust can settle in your head, you hear the raging debates over gun control and the question of whether this is yet another terrorist attack in our country and yet the world. Only then can you begin to try to make sense of it all and figure out how to best cope with these most disturbing events.

From a mental health view, the first thing we need to acknowledge is that feeling shocked, frightened, and uncertain are all very normal responses and reactions to these tragedies. These feelings are obviously very uncomfortable to experience, so it is (emotionally healthy) to reach out to everyone in your support system. This helps to re-establish a sense of safety and reassurance. It is also normal to try to make sense of the tragedy and at this point when many people can become insistent on knowing everything they can about the details of this tragic event. It is here I caution everyone not to expose themselves to everything on the news, even taking a break from watching minute to minute reports as the story unfolds.

At this point, taking care of yourself is vital in this situation, whether it is as simple as taking a deep breath or involving yourself in a pleasurable activity to help redirect your thoughts. In addition, getting yourself back into your normal routine as soon as you are ready is a great way to feel safe and secure.

However, it is common for many people to feel they no longer want to do anything outside of their home and especially if it involves a similar experience of the event such as attending a concert or being in a large crowd. Even though these tragedies are overwhelming, there has to be a long term commitment that you will not let fear dictate completely how you will live your life. Our fear can grow more overwhelming as we anticipate another event happening at any moment. This is easier said than done, but a very important thing to keep in mind.

Once the overwhelming and frightening feelings thankfully begin to subside, one can only look at what you can learn or even gain from this experience.

The main aspect to focus on? Having more awareness!

Awareness can be in the form of looking around at your environment and becoming more cognizant of anything that seems suspicious or out of the ordinary. One of the most difficult parts of life is that violent and criminal things do happen in reality, and being more aware of that is healthy.  The key is to make sure that you don’t become overly focused or obsessed on these thoughts and this awareness, and lose interest in living your daily life.  This can be a point when you may start develop something called Post Traumatic Stress Disorder or PTSD, especially, if you are a victim of this act.

Other types of awareness are taking more of an active role in your community. It can be as simple as learning who your neighbors are or watching what’s happening in your own back yard. As some people choose to bury their heads in the sand, it is important that we don’t make excuses for those individuals that are likely to perform such acts. People that commit these crimes ARE living in someone’s neighborhood and it is important to stay aware of that fact.

Another type of awareness is that many of the perpetrators have mental health issues. We must look at the mental disabilities of such individuals that are involved with these crimes. Is there a history or pattern in their past? If you have children, you may want to learn more about who your kids hang out with. Get to know their friends and even their families!

Educating yourself on mental health and it’s issues is a proactive way of gaining more insight.

Lastly, to remain aware everyday is a gift. When we see people’s lives end so abruptly I believe we have to reconnect with that notion that life is precious and to be cherished, never to be taken for granted.

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Interested in becoming more aware?  To receive more insight, you may want to read “Aware: The Science and Practice of Presence” by Daniel Siegel, MD. 

There are many other reading recommendations you may find interesting and informative by visiting my RESOURCES page.