Coping with Recent Tragedy

Coping with Recent Tragedy

Recent Events. The tragic mass shooting that took place in Uvalde, Texas weighs heavy on our hearts and minds. It’s difficult to find the words to describe the pain we are feeling, though the event is surely marked with incomparable grief. Many people suggest we view gun violence as a health crisis seeing that in the United States, there are more than 100 gun deaths each day and about 38,000 each year with rates continuing to rise (Mastroianni, 2022). In turn, the consequent mental health ramifications must also be attended to with great care.  Mental health ramifications. After such horrible events, our minds can be riddled with worry and anxiety. Many of us may experience nightmares, increased hypervigilance in certain spaces, and may even struggle with falling and staying asleep. It is important to note that if readers are experiencing these symptoms in light of recent events, it is a …

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Intimate Partner Violence

Intimate Partner Violence

What is intimate partner violence? According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, intimate partner violence (IPV) is “abuse or aggression that occurs in a romantic relationship. ‘Intimate partner’ refers to both current and former spouses and dating partners. IPV can vary in how often it happens and how severe it is.” (2021). Intimate partner violence can include the following types of behavior: physical violence, sexual violence, stalking, and psychological aggression. We encourage discourse to shift from using the term “victims” to using the term “survivors” when referring to those who have endured intimate partner violence; “survivors” is a more empowering and accurate term that highlights the strength it takes in being subject to such harrowing experiences. While women are statistically more likely to be survivors of intimate partner violence than men, it is important to note that countless men are also survivors of intimate partner violence.  Statistics. About …

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