We here at Maine Parents are reeling and processing deep grief with our community. We want you to know that you are not alone. Parenting when terrible and unfathomable things like the shootings in Lewiston happen can be some of the heaviest lifting we do as parents. It is important to do what we can to calm our own nervous systems as we provide support for our children. This can mean lots of things. For some people this will mean playing an online game. For others it might be reading a good book or watching a favorite movie. If possible, it might help to build in gentle exercise, fresh air and good food. Of course, sometimes these things are not options – especially given the extensive shelter-in-place orders that have followed the events on Wednesday night.
To help process the challenging conversations related to this hard time, here are some resources:
- National Child Traumatic Stress Network Talking to Children about the Shooting (nctsn.org)
To help support your own nervous system, here are some resources:
- Tapping is a proven method for discharging stress from the nervous system. Learn more and find free tapping resources here: Free Tapping Meditations – The Tapping Solution
- Mindful Self-compassion is another proven method to reduce the impact of stress on our bodies and minds. Find resources and free mediations here: Guided Self-Compassion Meditations (MP3) if you need something right now – try this 5 minute self-compassion break
- Acute stress in situations like this shooting can cause or exacerbate stress related to traumatic experiences. Many resources exist to support you. Consider reaching out to 2-1-1. Learn more about Maine’s crisis response services here: Crisis Services | Department of Health and Human Services (maine.gov)
- Free resources to support you include:
- PTSD Coach Online home (va.gov) and the PTSD app for mobile devices provide free resources, information, tools and support for reducing stress.
- Mindfulness Coach
- Mobile Apps – PTSD: National Center for PTSD (va.gov) These apps put evidence-based resources into the palm of your hand.
- If you or your loved ones are experiencing fear and unsafe situations within your relationship consider exploring the National Domestic Violence Hotline Domestic Violence Support | National Domestic Violence Hotline (thehotline.org) or Healthy relationships for young adults | love is respect
- If possible, give yourself a break when you are feeling overwhelmed. Reach out to friends or family members, take a walk or do something that you normally enjoy doing.
Sending love and light to you all.
Maine Parents