Do you know the signs of a mental health crisis in a school-age child? Do you how to help a student having a hard time? Guidance has been offered by the Michigan State Police and other state human service agencies.
Robert Sheehan, CEO of the Community Mental Health Association of Michigan, said, “The tragedy of the Oxford shootings, layered upon the collective trauma of the prolonged pandemic, has made many of us, as Michiganders, more fearful, more anxious, more reactive.”
Just listening is a good start for parents and kids. Getting professional help is also encouraged.
Sheehan said, “Now is the time for all of us to be attentive to the needs of each other and reach out rather than pull back; to listen with patience rather than lecture; to collectively build upon – and, where needed, rebuild – what has made our relationships and our communities strong. Only by taking these steps will we turn post-traumatic stress into post-traumatic growth.”
For immediate help, call the MDHHS WellHelp line at 1-888-535-6136 and press “8”.
Reporting for WGRT – Jennie McClelland
