The Trauma Response

It feels as though nearly every day Americans must process another mass shooting. Such traumatic events are a part of life in the US today and, if our recent history is to inform the future, these events will continue.

Today I speak with psychotherapist Lena Derhally about the human trauma response: which feelings are "normal", and which ones aren't? In the second part of today's conversation we discuss best practices for talking with our children about the tragedy at Robb Elementary School.

(Please note that while today's conversation is centered around the recent events in Uvalde, Texas, Lena's advice is applicable to all instances of gun violence in a gun-loving culture.)

Here's a preview:

[4:00] Ongoing trauma and protective mechanisms: Numbness is normal!

[9:15] Thoughts on media sensationalism and the importance of turning off the news, at least sometimes

[11:30] The research-backed importance of taking action as a means of healing

[15:30] What to say (and what not to say!) to your children about gun violence in schools

[20:30] The importance of maintaining routines, rhythms, and schedules for your children

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