In 2022, there have been over 27 school shootings in the United States. Exposure to adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), which includes violence, can alter brain development and lead to chronic health problems, mental illness, and substance misuse in adulthood. Having access to a trusted adult has been found to mitigate the impact of ACEs. Adults, counselors, therapists, and teachers can provide a sense of safety for children in discussing their fears and concerns. Though these conversations may be difficult for children and trusted adults alike, the National Association of School Psychologists has developed guidance for having such conversations.
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has rolled out a new 988 website. The website is designed to serve as a one-stop-shop for 988 resources from SAMHSA. The site also contains a 988 partner toolkit intended for SAMHSA’s 988 implementation partners (crisis call centers, state mental health programs, substance use treatment providers, behavioral health systems, and others) to provide key messages, FAQs, and more information about what 988 is and how it will work. The materials are designed to cover the basics of 988 and provide a strong foundation for partners to build for their audience-specific needs.