Reviewed by Mohsen Saidinejad, MD, MS, MBA and Ian Kodish, MD, PhD
In 2022, firearm deaths in the United States topped 48,000, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). That’s at least 132 people dying from a firearm-related injury each day.
Firearm-related deaths and injuries impact children and adults alike. In fact, it is now the leading cause of death among children and adolescents ages 1-19.
The profound impact of such violence on kids’ mental health is undeniable, potentially causing lasting trauma. Parents, clinicians, and community leaders all play pivotal roles in addressing this issue. Engaging in open and compassionate conversations with children is essential, offering them a safe space to express their fears and anxieties. Clinicians must be vigilant in recognizing signs of trauma in children exposed to firearm violence and ensure they have access to appropriate mental health support, safety counseling and resources.
Acknowledging the impact of this violence, the Pediatric Pandemic Network collated a list of resources to assist parents, providers, and community leaders addressing violence and firearm related trauma in kids. These resources are designed to promote safety and offer guidance on how to handle this pressing issue.
For Parents & Caregivers:
AAP: Childhood Exposure to Violence
AAP: How to Talk With Kids About Tragedies & Other Traumatic News Events
NCTSN: Parent Guidelines for Helping Youth After a Recent Shooting
Sesame Workshop: Community Violence
AAP: Guns in the Home: How to Keep Kids Safe
For Providers:
AAP: Firearm-Related Injuries Affecting the Pediatric Population
Don’t Forget the Bubbles: Adolescent Trauma
AAP: Preventing Gun Violence in the Lives of Children and Teens
AACAP: Resource Library on Guns and Violence
APA:How to talk to your patients about firearm safety
Lethal Means Safety Counseling for Providers:
AAP: CALM for Pediatric Providers: Counseling on Access to Lethal Means to Prevent Youth Suicide
SAMHSA: Lethal Means Safety for Suicide Prevention
AACAP: Suicide Safety: Precautions at Home
For Community Members:
NCTSN: Psychological First Aid for Schools
CDC: Firearm Violence Prevention
NCTSN: Helping Youth After Community Trauma: Tips for Educators