Community Corner
In Wake of Newtown School Shooting, Helping Children and Families Cope with Trauma
United Way 2-1-1offer advice and support in wake of horror of Newtown school shooting
From the folks at 2-1-1 and The United Way comes some important help on how to talk to our kids in the wake of the tragedy in Newtown:
Our hearts are with the families of those affected by today's shooting in Newtown.
United Way 2-1-1, Connecticut's statewide information and referral and crisis line, wants you to know that we are available 24 hours a day to connect families with the resources they need in the wake of this tragedy. If you or your child need assistance, dial 2-1-1, to reach call specialists trained in handling crisis situations.
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Resources Available
EMPS - 2-1-1 is the access point for Emergency Mobile Psychiatric Services, a mobile crisis line for children and youth. Dial 2-1-1 and press 1 to reach a crisis call specialist who can connect you directly to a mental health clinician in your area.
Find out what's happening in Windsor Locks-East Windsorwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
www.211ct.org - visit our website to find local trauma resources. Enter your zip code or town and search (under Search by Service Keyword) for one of the following terms: Child Guidance, Therapy Referrals, Bereavement Counseling, General Bereavement Support Groups or Crime Victim/Witness Counseling.
Click on the links below for other resources to help children cope with traumatic events.
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): Tips for Talking with and Helping Children Cope After a Disaster
- SAMHSA's Disaster Distress Helpline offers a counseling option available by text: Text "TalkWithUs" to 66746. Spanish speakers can text "Hablanos" to 66746.
- National Association of School Psychologists
- American Red Cross, Recovering Emotionally
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