May 24, 2018
We mourn the senseless loss of life and our hearts are with all those impacted by the mass shooting that took place in Santa Fe High School on May 18th. Our nation is facing a public health crisis, with the events of Friday morning marking the 41st school shooting in 2018. The AATA will continue to advocate for a path forward toward comprehensive legislative solutions to firearm-related injuries and fatalities and for stronger presence of mental health care providers, such as art therapists, in our schools. Art therapists are trained in trauma-informed care and are well-equipped to support communities hit by tragedy and those who are distressed as a result of these recurring tragic events. Art therapy services are needed not only in the aftermath of a tragedy but also to foster a safe community every day and help prevent violence.
Here are some resources to help understand gun violence and school crises:
- The American Art Therapy Association and the National Institute for Trauma Loss in Children – “The Value of Art Expression in Trauma-Informed Work”
- National Institute for Trauma and Loss in Children – “Violence in Schools: What Matters Most” offers information to for understanding school violence and creating a safe environment for learning.
- National Child Traumatic Stress Network – “Responding to a School Crisis” offers resources following a school shooting for students, family, and school administrators.
- American Psychological Association – “Resources for Coping with Mass Shootings, Understanding Gun Violence”