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Michigan State University shooting 2023: Resources to cope, tips to discuss tragedy

A worker cleans a pathway at Michigan State University, following a mass shooting Monday night that killed three people and injured five. The suspected gunman later committed suicide when confronted by police. (Bridge photo by Jonathan Oosting)

Parents may be searching for ways to help their children cope with the Michigan State University shooting, which killed three and injured five before a gunman committed suicide.

Here are some resources that are available.

  • Common Ground. Helps community members in crisis. Call -1-800-231-1127; Or Text “Hello”; to chat with a crisis counselor.
  • Oakland County Crisis/Suicide Line. 1-800-231-1127
  • OK2SAY. Students can talk to a trusted adult if they see or hear something that doesn't seem right. They can also report information anonymously using OK2SAY. Call 855-565-2729; text 652729; or email OK2SAY@mi.gov. For emergencies, dial 911.
  • The National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) created tips for parents and teachers to talk to children about violence.
  •  Another NASP resource, Helping Children Cope with Terrorism-Tips for Families and educators, is available in multiple languages.
  • Common Sense Media suggests taking an age-based approach to discussing news of school shootings to help children feel safe again.
  •  Verywell Family offers tips on how to have a conversation with a child and/or teen about gun violence or school shootings can feel overwhelming and provides suggestions on how to handle these hard conversations.
  • The American Psychological Association offers tips on managing your distress in the aftermath of a shooting.
  • The National Parent Helpline at 1-855-4 A PARENT (1-855-427-2736) offers emotional support from a trained advocate Monday through Friday from 1 p.m. to 10 p.m.
  • The National Child Traumatic Stress Network. Talking to Children About the Shooting. 
  • Harvard Graduate School of Education. Coping with Community Crisis. 

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