News

Children, Teens, School and Pulse Nightclub Trauma

Dale Budha, LCSW
Director, Outpatient Counseling Services

The Orlando Pulse Nightclub shooting both directly and indirectly affected most of the City of Orlando including our children and teens. As children and adolescents return to school, it is important to consider those that may be dealing with trauma associated with the Pulse shooting. The impact of trauma can negatively hinder a child’s social and emotional behaviors and ability to concentrate not to mention their academic performance.

Below we have included several resources to assist families to process this tragedy in a healthy way. These resources can be utilized as a preventative measure or as part of an ongoing conversation. Parents and teachers are often the first to recognize the symptoms of trauma in a child. Symptoms may include social isolation, irritability, anger, fear, anxiety, and clinging, withdrawn, short-tempered, an inability to focus or complete tasks, insomnia, or change in appetite. It is crucial that children who are displaying these symptoms receive treatment as soon as possible to prevent long-term dysfunction.

Like many other childhood issues, awareness and early intervention are key! Please review the following resources in order to assist our families, teachers, and community to enjoy a healthy and happy school year. If you have a child who needs more assistance please contact Aspire’s Children’s Outpatient Counseling Services for information or to schedule an appointment at 407-875-3700, ext. 6108.

NCTSN Response: Orlando Nightclub Hate Crime and Act of Terrorism