Daily reports of violent acts, including police and video footage of shootings and killings, have left many people feeling angry, afraid and worried. Many African Americans and those in other minority communities have vicariously identified with the victims in several of these tragedies. This personal identification has led to feelings of hopelessness, shock and fear. A great number of people from various ethnic and racial backgrounds have cried out for justice, positive change and peace. And others have spoken out on social media under #BlackLivesMatter. Some have responded with #AllLivesMatter or #BlueLivesMatter. In the midst of all the controversy, what is evident is the deeply personal and systemic emotional pain. Even though many of us may not be directly involved in these horrific events and are just hearing about them and/or watching and re-watching them on TV or other media, we are emotionally affected. And some people experience more severe emotions than others. These common distressful reactions to hearing about traumatic events and the effects of watching horrific acts can often lead to Secondary Traumatic Stress (STS).
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Anger
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Hopelessness
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Insomnia
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Avoidance
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Sadness
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Irritability
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Poor Concentration
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Aggression
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Increase Awareness of STS
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Exercise and Good Nutrition
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Stay Connected-prioritize personal relationships
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Make a Wellness Plan
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Psychotherapy
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Practice good self-care
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Create and/or participate in an accountability buddy system
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