Washington, D.C., May 25, 2022 — Our hearts are broken after the brutal and tragic loss of children and teachers in Uvalde, Texas. We mourn their loss.

Tragedies like this, the recent shootings in Buffalo, Houston, and too many other cities in the U.S., are traumatic for those directly impacted and can harm the mental health of others who feel its impact.

The American Psychiatric Association offers resources vetted by physicians on coping with these tragedies and talking with children to help them through these events. Please be aware that you are not alone in your feelings and that mental health professionals can help.

APA will continue to advance measures aimed at reducing firearm-related violence in the interest of public health.

If you are overwhelmed, please seek help or call 1-800-273-TALK (8255).

APA also offers psychiatrists resources and training for responding to disasters.

American Psychiatric Association

The American Psychiatric Association, founded in 1844, is the oldest medical association in the country. The APA is also the largest psychiatric association in the world with more than 37,000 physician members specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, prevention, and research of mental illnesses. APA’s vision is to ensure access to quality psychiatric diagnosis and treatment. For more information, please visit www.psychiatry.org.