Old Saybrook Youth & Family Services December 17, 2012

The nation was transfixed over the week-end by images of violence and horror, but also bravery, compassion and a shared sense that coming together will provide healing and strength.This letter will include links to some resources for parents that may provide useful information on how to communicate with your children about the tragedy, and potential behaviors to be aware of that may indicate a child is struggling. Children and adults who may be more emotionally vulnerable naturally may have more difficulty processing this experience.  Our community has experienced the loss of several adults in recent months and a person's response to this tragedy can become magnified due to other stressors they are currently experiencing, such as finances, relationship issues, or health concerns. 

If you have concerns about the safety of someone you know, please talk to someone who can provide guidance or intervention. Don't try to handle the situation alone.  Emergency numbers in addition to 911 include the following:EMPS Emergency Mobile Psychiatric Services- Call 211 to connect with EMPS, a 24 hour telephone triage providing psychiatric crisis intervention services for children and their families.  EMPS is a free service.River Valley Services- Adult Services The Mobile Crisis Team is a community crisis evaluation and intervention service which is available 24/7.  They can be reached at any time by calling (860) 344-2100OSYFS provides after hours on-call emergency services for our clients and community members.  (860)790-0883 for clinical emergency and (860)790-1279 for Social Services Emergency.       

Tips for parents and adults in the community:

1. Model calm and control Children take their emotional cues from the significant adults in their lives.

2.Reassure children they are safe- the schools and community have many factors in place to insure their immediate safety

3.Remind them there are trustworthy people in charge -ie police, firefighters, town govt.

4.Let children know it is ok to feel upset

5.Observe children's emotional state- depending on their age, children may not express their feelings verbally.  Changes in appetite, behavior or sleep patterns can indicate a child's level of anxiety or discomfort

6.Look for children at greater risk- children who have experienced previous trauma or personal loss, or suffer from a behavioral health illness (depression or other), or with special needs, may be at greater risk for a severe reaction than others.

7. Keep it simple and stick to the facts-    don't embellish or speculate about what has happened.

8.Keep your explanation developmentally appropriate- please see sidebar link

9. Monitor your own stress level- don't ignore your own feelings of anxiety, anger or grief.  Talking to friends, family, religious leaders, and mental health counselors can help.  You will be better able to support your children if you can express your own emotions in a productive manner.  Get appropriate sleep, nutrition, and exercise.

From www.nasponline.org  Resources on this site available in other languages