Experiencing mass violence can feel surreal and you may feel different from anyone who was not there, even close friends or family. It may be hard for you to express how you feel or for them to understand, and strong emotions can sometimes push people apart. However, it is important for you to reach out to one or two trusted people to reestablish a sense of connection and avoid isolation. Begin by sharing some of the activities you used to enjoy together. You don’t have to talk about what happened if you don’t want to. Taking a walk, playing a game, sharing a meal or having coffee can help rekindle those old connections. Be patient and allow any emotional distance to heal. You might also seek new connections with other survivors who can offer recovery insights.

Sometimes it’s good to be alone to process your feelings and heal. On the other hand you may be feeling lonely because your friendships have changed or your usual social activities aren't happening anymore. To change the situation, don’t wait for others to contact you. You may need to take the lead and reach out with a text or message. Even brief contacts can help. You may have been staying home more than usual. If you can, go out for an activity, invite someone to go with you, and have conversations with people you don’t know well. If a good friend lives far away, calling to catch up can help reduce loneliness. Slowly get back into the swing of things, but be persistent in reaching out.

Mass violence can shake up communities and disrupt the connections people rely on. It can affect many individuals simultaneously, causing significant changes. Friendships, faith communities, co-workers, and neighbors may not be as accessible as before for companionship,

guidance, or support. Making new connections might require a deliberate and continuous effort, such as attending events where you can share activities with new people. Re-establishing strong bonds will take time. Remember, this process is also an essential part of the recovery journey. For more ideas, go here: Build Community and Peer Support

When you're living in a new place, the people around you may not be familiar with the mass violence that occurred in your previous community or the experiences you've been through. Explaining these events can feel like a significant effort. It's especially important to stay connected with people from your old community who can understand your situation. Maintain these connections through social media, phone calls, or occasional visits back to your hometown until you've settled into your new home. This connection can offer comfort and support as you adjust to your new surroundings. You can find local resources by clicking on the map for your location here: Home

It is ok to ask for help for tasks you usually manage on your own. Getting practical assistance can help you regain a sense of order and normalcy in y our life. Everyday jobs of cleaning, maintenance, paperwork, meals or laundry can pile up. Is there a friend, neighbor or family member you can ask to help? Consider hiring someone for a specific task if needed. If someone has offered to help, now is the time to accept their offer with a simple “yes, please”. See link below on How to Ask for Help. How do I ask for help or support?

Experiencing mass violence can make you question life’s meaning. It can profoundly shake your worldview. Rediscovering purpose and your personal priorities takes time. Talking with a counselor, family member, good friend or faith leader can help. You might find meaning in honoring those who have suffered, supporting others, mentoring, community involvement, art or a greater appreciation for small things. Take time to identify your current values and interests, and then act on them with small steps. Writing a personal mission statement can clarify what to do next.

Mass violence brings sudden and profound changes to one’s life. Your sense of safety and what you consider a “normal life” may be deeply shaken and your daily routine may be upended. Rebuilding will be a gradual process that begins with small steps, but it’s possible. You won’t have all the answers on how to rebuild, so it’s important to allow yourself to be curious about the future while grieving the losses you have experienced. You may also need to seek new sources of support such as a therapist, a peer support group, or new social activities. Let others help you explore the possibilities.

Most communities offer support for crime victims. For financial, practical or other resources, go to Social/Human Services . You can also find local resources by clicking on the map for your location here: Home. Ask neighbors, your doctor, pastor or local mental health providers for help finding what you need. You can also go the Help button on this page for more information.

Even though you may have people around you or to keep you company, you may not be able to fully express what you are going through. It may be that you need to spend time with other survivors in a peer support group or other activities. Consider finding a therapist who is trained in the treatment of trauma. See links below.