This week’s horrific violence in a Lancaster County schoolhouse wrenches our hearts. If possible, this tragedy was even more upsetting than other recent school violence. The beautiful rolling hills of Lancaster County, where I grew up, are widely known for its Mennonite and Amish citizens. These communities of peaceful folks reject much technology in order to lead simple and more authentic lives. The victims were among the most innocent and vulnerable of the Lancaster County “quiet Dutch” – young girls attending school not far from their homes. How could someone harm them? What can we do to prevent this from happening again?
I do not have answers to these questions. However, the critical issues in preventing such a heart-wrenching tragedy are clear. We must help individuals to recognize when they need social and emotional supports, and we must remove any barriers to getting those supports. The world today, even in bucolic Lancaster County, is evolving at a challenging pace. At times, we may need help to cope with that pace. What is required is the recognition that help is needed and a simple path to that support.
This week has been designated as Mental Health Awareness Week. Please do not ignore a family member, a co-worker, a friend - or yourself - who is struggling emotionally. Encourage and facilitate getting help by talking to a health care professional or, even simpler, beginning with an on-line screening tool such as those available for depression (www.nmha.org/ccd/support/screening.cfm). Information regarding how to talk to your children about community violence is also available at (www.apa.org/topics/schoolshooting.html).
Psychological research in the past several decades has provided impressive interventions to address mental health problems. In our grief, let us take responsibility for helping anyone in need. Help them to find the resources and tools that may comfort and support them.
