What Are The Effects Of Mass Shootings On Mental Health?

| Awareness

What Are The Effects Of Mass Shootings On Mental Health?

 

Mass shootings in the United States have been happening more and more, and they are also increasing in frequency. This has an effect on the mental health of people who have to witness them. Read this blog to learn about the effects of mass shootings on mental health.

 

What is a Mass Shooting?


A mass shooting is a shootings spree in which four or more victims are killed. Mass shootings are often perpetrated by lone gunmen who open fire on unarmed civilians in populated areas.

The effects of mass shootings on mental health can be widespread and long-lasting. Survivors of mass shootings often suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. These mental health conditions can lead to substance abuse, social withdrawal, and suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Families and friends of victims can also experience trauma after a mass shooting. For such condition, you must book an appointment with nearest your specialist.

The frequency of mass shootings in the United States has increased in recent years, with many people attributing this to the easy availability of guns. Studies have shown that exposure to media coverage of mass shootings can also have negative mental health effects, even for people who were not directly involved in the event.

 

How do Mass Shootings Affect Mental Health?


In the wake of mass shootings, it's not just the physical survivors who are left to grapple with the aftermath. Mental health professionals say that there is aripple effect of trauma that can spread through entire communities.

According to Dr. Mark Rea, director of the Disaster and Mass Violence Program at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston, "People who have never been exposed to this kind of violence can be profoundly affected."

Rea says that symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can show up immediately after a traumatic event, or they may not appear until months or even years later. And it's not just people who witnessed the violence firsthand who can be affected, research has shown that people who live in communities where these kinds of events take place are also at risk for developing PTSD.

 

Some Other Problems


In addition to PTSD, mass shootings can also trigger other mental health problems such as anxiety, depression, and substance abuse. And unfortunately, these problems can often be magnified by the way the media covers these events.

"The 24/7 news cycle and social media mean that people can't escape graphic images and stories about the shooting," Rea says. "And this constant exposure can exacerbate symptoms."

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues in the wake of a mass shooting, there are resources available to help. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline provides 24/7 support for anyone in crisis, and the Substance Abuse

 

What should people do after a Mass Shooting?


In the wake of a mass shooting, it is normal to feel shock, disbelief, sadness, anger, and fear. If you are feeling any of these emotions, you are not alone. It is important to give yourself time to process what has happened and to grieve. Here are some things that may help you in the aftermath of a mass shooting:

  • Talk to someone who will understand and can offer support. This could be a friend, family member, therapist, or hotline.

  • Avoid social media if it is causing you distress.

  • Limit news consumption to only what is absolutely necessary.

  • Take care of yourself physically by eating well, sleeping enough, and exercising.

  • Find activities that help you relax and make you feel good. This could include spending time outdoors, listening to music, or reading.


 

Conclusion


The effects of mass shootings on mental health are far-reaching and long-lasting. For those who survive the initial trauma, they may struggle with PTSD, anxiety, and depression for years to come. Even if we don't personally know anyone affected by a mass shooting, the event can still have a profound effect on our mental health. It's important to be aware of the signs of distress and seek help if needed. With proper support, survivors can eventually rebuild their lives and find hope again.

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