The news about the Sandy Hook Elementary shootings is just so horrible. Little kids have died in a place that’s supposed to be safe: their school. I don’t know about you, but I’ve been feeling kind of scared today. It’s frightening to think that at any time, some terrible person could steal our lives or those of our loved ones–because as long as people have easy access to guns, things like this can happen.

I wish I could just blink my eyes and make all the terrible shootings of this year (I think there were seven mass shootings this year alone) go away. Obviously, I can’t do that, but I can share a few little things I do to calm myself down when I get scared. I’m not a therapist or anything, but these things help me and hopefully they’ll help you, too.

1. Call someone you love
I talked to my mom when I heard about the shooting, and hearing her voice was really comforting. Of course everyone is grieving for this horrible loss–but sometimes grief and fear is easier to deal with when you talk it out with someone close to you. Don’t be afraid to seem weak or vulnerable. It’s really okay. When something like this happens, it’s only normal to feel shaken.

2. Remember to breathe
If you feel kind of panicked and tense–sit down, breathe in through your nose for a count of six, then breathe out through your nose for a count of six. Breathe in again through your nose for a count of seven, breathe out through your nose again for a count of seven. Do about five of these, and you should feel a little calmer.

3. Don’t feel guilty for having fun
The school shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School is so horrible and sad, and a lot of innocent lives were lost, but it doesn’t mean that your life isn’t continuing. If someone invites you to a party this weekend, or if you see something funny on Tumblr tonight, don’t feel guilty about smiling! Life is precious and something to be enjoyed as much as possible.

4. Get help if you need to
If you’re losing sleep over today’s shooting or are scared to be at school, talk to your parents, a teacher, or a guidance counselor about it. There are counselors who can help you get through this and learn to move on in the best way you can.

How are you feeling after the Sandy Hook Shootings? Let’s get a conversation going in the comments.

This Girl Wants To Talk Gun Control

Follow Us On Twitter

---