“This can cause a general sense of hopelessness, anxiety, tension headaches, shortness of breath, and intense sadness,” she said. “The more we relate to the victims, hearing about their pain, we become more empathetic to human suffering.”
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It’s especially important to take care of your mental health after a tragedy Jones-Kelley said.
Steps you can take:
- Keep a normal routine and maintain your eating and sleeping schedules
- Talk about what you are thinking and feeling
- Avoid risky behaviors, misusing drugs and alcohol
- Extend kindness to others (it will make you feel better)
- Reach out for professional help if you need extra support
Source: Montgomery County Alcohol, Drug Addiction & Mental Health Services board
Samaritan CrisisCare offers a 24-hour helpline at 937-224-4646.
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