Christian Counseling Resources

It’s natural to ask “Why did this happen?” and to struggle with the emotions that follow. There may not be clear answers, but know this: what you’re feeling is common. Shock, sorrow, fear, anger, numbness, even trouble sleeping or focusing, these are all normal reactions. Healing takes time, and the support of family, friends, and your church community can help restore balance.

Ways to Strengthen Your Resilience

• Talk about it. Share your feelings with people who care. Support from others — especially those who’ve had similar experiences — helps you feel less alone.
• Strive for balance. Counter feelings of fear with reminders of what is meaningful, comforting, and good.
• Take breaks from the news. Stay informed, but avoid overexposure. Step away when coverage feels overwhelming, and focus on life-giving activities.
• Honor your feelings. Expect a range of emotions, including physical stress like exhaustion or feeling “off balance.” Allow yourself to grieve at your own pace.
• Take care of yourself. Eat well, rest, move your body, and avoid alcohol or drugs. Healthy routines and simple practices like deep breathing or prayer can help calm your mind and body.
• Help others. Serving or supporting someone in need can give you purpose and lift your own spirit.
• Give grief time. If you’ve lost someone, healing will take time. Expect ups and downs, including survivor’s guilt. Be gentle with yourself in the process.

When to Seek Professional Help
If your distress feels overwhelming or prevents you from carrying out daily responsibilities, please reach out to a licensed mental health professional. Counseling can provide tools to help you move forward.

As a parent, you may be unsure how to talk with your children about a community shooting. Children look to you for safety and stability no matter their age. Limit unnecessary exposure to constant news, and use these tips to help guide them through:

Tips for Supporting Your Child

• Start the conversation. Let them know you want to hear their thoughts and feelings. Choose natural times like car rides, bedtime, or mealtimes.
• Keep home a safe place. Create calm and comfort. Plan simple family activities to give them a sense of security.
• Watch for signs of stress. Sleep issues, changes in appetite, trouble focusing, or mood shifts are normal at first. Encourage journaling, prayer, or creative expression.
• Limit news and monitor conversations. Too much coverage increases anxiety. Be mindful of what children overhear and gently correct misinformation.
• Check in often. Give extra attention, patience, and reassurance. Even small gestures — like an extra hug — matter.
• Take care of yourself. Children learn by watching you. Keep healthy routines, rest, and take breaks from media so you can model resilience.

When to Seek Help
If distress feels overwhelming or continues beyond several weeks, consider reaching out to a licensed mental health professional. Support is available for both you and your children.