SCCAP/Resources for Dealing with a School Shooting

This is a page for caregivers, professionals and members of the public as a resource for dealing with a school shooting. It recommends some steps that each target group should take following such an event.

The first four weeks following the event
According to the DSM-5, in the first few days up to 4 weeks following a traumatic event, those who display symptoms of Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) should more appropriately be given a diagnosis of Acute Stress Disorder (ASD). The two share many similar symptoms, but a key difference is the increase of dissociative symptoms for acute stress disorder. However, what may appear to be symptoms of Acute Stress Disorder are also common reactions in the immediate aftermath of a trauma. As a result, the majority of people will not develop Acute Stress Disorder or PTSD, meaning resiliency is the norm. Social support has a powerful role post trauma support in facilitating resilience

Four weeks and longer following the event
After four weeks following the traumatic event, the DSM-5 reports that symptoms related to an acute stress disorder diagnosis should be treated as PTSD. However, it is important to note that someone may have PTSD even if they did not have an acute stress disorder diagnosis. The following are resources for clinicians, parents or caregivers, teachers, and survivors for how to cope with the symptoms of PTSD. However, these resources are only meant to be a source of support and should by no means take the place of professional treatment.

Hotlines

 * SAMHSA Disaster Distress Helpline: 1-800-985-5990. 24/7 number that can be called for assistance. The DDH is a sub-network of the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.
 * Suicide Prevention and Crisis hotline: 775-784-8090
 * National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273-8255

Find-A-Therapist Resource

 * How to find a therapist

Resources for Stigma Reduction: Misplacing Blame on Mental Illness for School Shootings
Media representations of shootings can lead to the misconception that mental illness often causes people to act violently. Understanding the facts helps counteract this stigma:
 * Mass Shootings and Mental Illness--American Psychiatric Association
 * Autism Society Statement on Florida Shooting


 * Autism & Aggression--Autism Speaks
 * "The Link Between Autism and Violence Isn’t Autism"


 * /Psychological First Aid