Navigating the Aftermath: A Comprehensive Guide for Parents After a School Tragedy

In the wake of the devastating shooting at Apalachee High School, parents are faced with the daunting task of supporting their children during this difficult time. To provide guidance and reassurance, 11Alive spoke with Jody Baumstein, a licensed therapist with Children's Healthcare of Atlanta Strong4Life, who shared invaluable insights on how to effectively communicate with children and help them cope with the emotional aftermath.

Empowering Parents to Navigate the Unthinkable

Fostering Open Communication

Establishing a foundation of open communication is crucial in the aftermath of a traumatic event. Baumstein emphasizes the importance of making conversations with children a regular part of family life, rather than waiting for a crisis to arise. By creating a comfortable and familiar environment, parents can encourage their children to express their thoughts and feelings freely. This ongoing dialogue not only helps children process their emotions but also strengthens the parent-child bond, ensuring that children feel supported and understood.Recognizing that children may have a range of responses, even if they were not directly involved in the incident, is essential. Baumstein notes that increased worry, fear, and clinginess are common reactions, and it's crucial for parents to validate these feelings. By acknowledging the child's experience and normalizing their emotions, parents can help their children feel less alone and more empowered to navigate the challenges ahead.

Promoting Healthy Coping Strategies

In the aftermath of a tragedy, Baumstein encourages parents to actively teach their children healthy coping strategies. These can include maintaining good sleep habits, proper nutrition, and regular physical activity. Additionally, she emphasizes the importance of limiting media exposure, as constant alerts and notifications can keep children in a heightened state of stress, making it difficult for them to focus, sleep, and engage in their usual activities.Baumstein also suggests teaching children specific in-the-moment techniques to manage their anxiety and emotions. Simple exercises like planting their feet on the floor, taking deep breaths, and using their senses to ground themselves in the present moment can help children regain a sense of control and build their resilience.

Recognizing the Need for Professional Support

Navigating the emotional aftermath of a traumatic event can be challenging, and Baumstein encourages parents to trust their instincts. If a parent senses that their child is struggling beyond the normal range of reactions, it's crucial to seek professional help without delay. Consulting a licensed mental health professional can provide valuable guidance in determining the appropriate level of support and intervention.Baumstein emphasizes the importance of destigmatizing mental health services and encouraging children to view seeking help as a sign of strength and resilience. By modeling this approach, parents can empower their children to prioritize their emotional well-being and develop the skills to manage future challenges.In the aftermath of a school tragedy, parents play a vital role in supporting their children's emotional recovery. By fostering open communication, promoting healthy coping strategies, and recognizing the need for professional support, parents can help their children navigate this difficult time and emerge stronger and more resilient.