In times of tragedy

In this time of national mourning for the victims of the Sandy Hook Tragedy, my heart goes out to the families of those who were senselessly and brutally murdered on December 14, 2012. Needless to say the children and school staff who witnessed this horrifying act of violence may deal with symptoms of post traumatic stress disorder in the coming weeks and months. My heart goes out to them as they may have nightmares and flashbacks of the event. I pray for them and pray that they are not ashamed to ask for help with their feelings. Please hug your children and thank God for them and that they are safe.

Dr Phil featured survivors from the Sandy Hook tragedy on his program on December 17, 2012, http://drphil.com/shows/show/1941. He stresses the importance of talking about what happened and how you feel about the events of that day.

This is from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA):

Disaster Distress Helpline Offers Immediate Crisis Counseling

Call 1-800-985-5990 or text "TalkWithUs" to 66746.

The recent shooting at the Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut, continues to bring out strong emotions across the Nation. The Disaster Distress Helpline, 1-800-985-5990, can provide immediate counseling to anyone who needs help in dealing with the many issues and problems that might arise from this tragedy.

Sponsored by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), the Helpline immediately connects callers to trained and caring professionals from the closest crisis counseling center in the nationwide network of centers. Helpline staff will provide confidential counseling, referrals, and other needed support services.

The Disaster Distress Helpline is a 24-hours-a-day, 7-days-a-week national hotline dedicated to providing disaster crisis counseling. The toll-free Helpline is confidential and multilingual, and available for those who are experiencing psychological distress as a result of natural or man-made disasters, incidents of mass violence, or any other tragedy affecting America's communities.

Our texting service also is available to Spanish speakers. Text "Hablanos" to 66746 for 24/7 emotional support.

TTY for Deaf/Hearing Impaired: 1-800-846-8517

The Helpline also can be accessed online at http://disasterdistress.samhsa.gov/.