Giving Students a Voice: Addressing the Mental Health Impact of School Shootings.

The recent shooting death of a student at Bowie High School in Arlington has sparked fear among teenage students across the nation, according to TCU Psychiatrist and Professor Dr. Cheryl Hurd. She stated that over 50 percent of teenagers fear a school shooting, as they feel less empowered and lack access to safe places. In North Texas, a series of school shootings and violent incidents on campuses have heightened concerns about the prevalence of such events.

In Keller ISD, Timber Creek High School recently experienced the tragic loss of two students within a week, prompting its principal Shawn Duhon to notify parents. Dr. Hurd emphasized the importance of parents engaging in discussions with their teens to address the harsh realities they face. She advised parents to let their teens express their fears openly and to have conversations about how these worries are impacting them.

Studies suggest that teen fears are escalating, as society becomes less courteous and more prone to anger over trivial matters. Dr. Hurd stressed the significance of initiating open dialogues with teens to help them cope with their anxieties. Parents should listen to their teens, allow them to articulate their concerns, and provide a safe space for them to express their emotions during these challenging times.