How To Help Children And Youth That Have Witnessed A Stranger Being Killed
Seeing anyone killed is very confusing and upsetting for children & youth – so much so that they often can hardly talk about it. The reactions of adults to the event are a very important model. Adults’ ability and willingness to talk about the event with compassion is of utmost importance in helping the child or youth recover trust and calm. Depending upon their age, children & youth can go into shock very easily and can become withdrawn emotionally – occasionally for long periods of time. Without help, children & youth can also behave erratically, be confused, fearful or very angry. The event can create unexplained fears and nightmares and interfere with learning and success. Children & youth can become very angry, depressed and fearful if there are many killings in their neighborhoods.
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First, We Would Investigate |
Second, We Would Investigate |
For Long Term Support |
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On Our Own We Would Try: • Wholesome Pleasures • Pets • Less or No TV • Replace sodas, juices, sugars, fats, fast foods with water, veggies, whole grains, nuts, protein, fruit, slow food • Bedtime Stories and Chats • Back Rubs and Foot Massages • Long Walks/Hikes • Nature |
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For Parents: • Get help from religious leaders, therapists, public health staff. • Staff at funeral homes can sometimes be helpful as well. • Make sure to have unstructured, relaxed family time where discussions and questions can arise when the child or youth is ready. • Do what you can to support the release of the shock of seeing a killing. • Get help yourself. |