We continue our reflection on God’s call to us through the ELCA’s “60-Day Journey Toward Justice in a Culture of Gun Violence.”
Day 46: Recognizing and Addressing Stress and Anxiety after a Traumatic Event
When trying to cope with stress or anxiety from a traumatic event—personal or in your community—a good first step is to talk to someone, such as a trusted family member, a friend, a counselor or therapist, your pastor or youth minister, or even your personal physician. If you don’t know what help is available in your area, contact your synod office, a Lutheran social service agency, an ecumenical partner, or a school counselor.
“Coping With Stress,” a web page posted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, provides free public information for recognizing and reducing stressful feelings and symptoms following a traumatic event. Among the topics are:
• Healthy ways to cope
• Crisis hotline suggestions
• Helping youth cope with stress
• Tips for parents
• Tips for kids and teens
• Tips for school personnel