Here are resources that may be helpful when experiencing the difficult emotions that accompany trauma, crisis, anxiety and grief. If you need to talk to someone, the Disaster Distress Helpline, opens a new window is available 24/7 at 1-800-985-5990. Colorado Crisis Services, opens a new window is also available by phone, text, chat or in person.
For Parents
You may be wondering what to do when kids ask about the news, opens a new window. Here are several resources for how to best help children:
- Colorado School Safety Resource Center's The Role for Caring Adults after a Community Tragedy, opens a new window
- School Crisis Center's Guidelines for Talking About Tragedies, opens a new window
- The National Association of School Psychologists' Talking to Children About Violence, opens a new window and Brief Facts and Tips for Addressing Grief, opens a new window
- The National Center for Grieving Children & Families' Talking with Children about Tragic Events, opens a new window
Try these books for more help:
Freeing your Child From Anxiety
For Kids
- Sesame Street's Support After an Emergency video, opens a new window and Help for Each Other guide, opens a new window
Books to read together with kids:
The Rhino Who Swallowed A Storm
For Teens
- A guide for teens on Coping After Mass Violence, opens a new window
A list of Tragedy and Resilience in Teen Books
For Survivors
- Find stories of strength and recovery after a disaster from Strength After, opens a new window
- Tips for Survivors: Recovering from Disasters, opens a new window and managing stress, opens a new window after a traumatic event
- It can be hard to know what to say to survivors and those directly impacted by tragedy. What Not to Say guide, opens a new window
For Caregivers
For caregivers such as parents and educators, it's important to remember to take time to care for yourself.
Books for caregivers:
Chicken Soup for the Caregiver's Soul
School & Mass Shooting Resources
- The National Child Traumatic Stress Network's School Shooting Resources, opens a new window
- American Psychological Association's Managing Your Distress in the Aftermath of a Mass Shooting, opens a new window
Community Resources
- A list of local resources, opens a new window on various topics
