What child survivors of the Annunciation church shooting will need to deal with trauma

A shooting at Annunciation Catholic Church in Minneapolis left many children traumatized, despite physical safety. Adults, including parents and students, took immediate action to protect the children, but the emotional fallout will be significant. Mental health professionals emphasize that children will display a range of reactions from anger to numbness, and it is crucial for parents to normalize these responses. Mark Barden, a Sandy Hook shooting survivor, remarked on the unique grief associated with such acts of violence, as they stem from human choice rather than random disasters. Annunciation Catholic School will communicate available support services to families in need.

Counselors recommend that parents should not rush children into therapy but watch for signs that indicate the need for professional help, such as extended withdrawal or self-harm. They encourage open communication, allowing children to lead discussions about their feelings. The majority of those who experience trauma do not develop PTSD, as these reactions are typically normal in the aftermath of abnormal situations.