How to Manage Anxiety Related to School Shootings

Anxiety related to school shootings is unfortunately becoming more common in today's society. It is understandable to feel nervous or scared about the possibility of a school shooting, but it is important to manage those feelings in a healthy and productive way. Here are some tips for managing anxiety related to school shootings:

Limit exposure to news coverage

It is important to stay informed about what is happening in the world, but constantly watching news coverage about school shootings can increase anxiety and fear. Limit your exposure to news coverage and only check in periodically to stay informed.

Talk to someone

Talking to someone about your anxiety can help you feel less alone and more supported. Whether it's a friend, family member, teacher, or therapist, talking about your feelings can help you process them and find ways to manage them.

Practice mindfulness

Mindfulness techniques, such as deep breathing, meditation, and yoga, can help you calm your mind and reduce anxiety. Practicing mindfulness regularly can help you build resilience and cope with difficult situations.

Take action

Feeling like you have some control over the situation can help reduce anxiety. Taking action can mean participating in a school safety drill, volunteering for a local advocacy group, or writing to your elected officials to advocate for gun control measures.

Focus on what you can control

It's easy to feel overwhelmed and powerless in the face of a school shooting, but focusing on what you can control can help reduce anxiety. You can control how you prepare for a potential emergency, how you respond in a crisis, and how you take care of yourself in the aftermath.

Seek professional help

If your anxiety related to school shootings is interfering with your daily life, it may be helpful to seek professional help. A mental health professional can provide you with tools and techniques to manage your anxiety and help you feel more in control.

Click here for more information on Anxiety Therapy.