During this time, while we appreciate that anger, fear, and grief are natural responses to these events, we hope that each person may also find some comfort and a safe harbor in the circle of friends, family, and community that surrounds them. As many continue to seek answers for these mass shooting events, noting the influence of hate, racial bias, eschewing diversity, we also are reminded, as psychologists, stereotyping and scapegoating mental illness are not a part of this same understanding.

Some resources you may wish to share with your colleagues, friends, and community, courtesy of the American Psychological Association and your OPA Board members:

· Managing your distress in the aftermath of a shooting

· Helping children manage distress in the aftermath of a shooting

· How to talk to children about difficult news and tragedies

· How much news coverage is OK for children?

· Warning signs of youth violence

· Gun Violence: Prediction, Prevention and Policy (an expert panel report)

· Talking to children about violence: Tips for Parents and Teachers

· APA's Gun Violence Prevention Efforts

OPA stands ready and able to support our Dayton area psychology and mental health colleagues in supporting their community in the tragic aftermath and healing. In the interim, we share our condolences to those killed, injured, grieving, or struggling with these endless and senseless violent acts.

Your OPA Board of Directors
August 5, 2019