Resources

This page is just a sample of the many resources  available for individual and community healing after mass violence trauma.  If you do not see what you are looking for related to healing after 5-31 – reach out to the VB Strong Team to see how we can help.

*Download a free copy of Preparing Well: A Guidebook for Coping Emotionally and Physically Before, During, and After a Trauma Anniversary.  

Preparing Well Compressed : This book was created to provide additional support for each individual in their recovery journey.

• Pulled from the NMVVRC – Home

Virginia Victim Assistance Network: Virginia Victim Assistance Network (vanetwork.org) Check out information on the Homicide Survivors Support Group.

• To find out more information, contact Dina Blythe, Group Coordinator at Dina.Blythe@vanetwork.org or 804-331-4057 ext.103

Crisis Text Line – This helpline offers free 24/7 support for individuals struggling with emotional crises.

• Text the message “COPE” to 741-741 to speak with someone now

Virtual Grief Support Groups: Hospice_VirtualSupportGroups2ndround.pdf (sentara.com)

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Disaster Distress Helpline – This helpline is for anyone experiencing significant emotional distress related to a mass crime or major disaster. Mass violence victims are specifically encouraged to contact the helpline, either by telephone or SMS/text, at the numbers below:

• Call 1.800.985.5990 – English (with a Spanish-speaking option)
• Text “TalkWithUs” (or “Hablanos” for Spanish language assistance) to 66746
• In Puerto Rico, Spanish Speakers can text “Hablanos” to 1-787-339-2663

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National Suicide Prevention Lifeline – This helpline provides free and confidential emotional support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You will be routed to the closest crisis center based on your area code. Local counselors have access to community mental health resources and can provide referrals.

• 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-799-4889); TTY: 1-800-799-4889
• The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline also has chat available, 24 hours a day. Chat with someone now, by clicking here

Helpful Websites

• National Mass Violence Victimization Resource Center
  • Serves as the source for best evidence to achieve a social understanding of mass violence upon which civic leaders, mental health professionals, journalists, policy makers, and victim assistance professionals can rely. Our vision is to provide communities access to evidence-based information and resources needed to effectively prepare for and respond to mass violence incidents.
• NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) Coastal Virginia
  • NAMI Coastal Virginia is a non-profit, grass-roots organization and the voice for those affected by mental health conditions. We advocate at the local, state, and national levels to eradicate stigma, and are committed to improving the lives of the those with a mental health condition and their families by providing free support groups, free classes, educational programs, and community outreach.
• Office for Victims of Crime Training & Technical Assistance Center (OVC TTAC)
  • Building the capacity of victim assistance organizations across the country.
• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration Disaster Technical Assistance Center (SAMSHA DTAC) 
  • The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration Disaster Technical Assistance Center: (SAMSHA DTAC) helps states, US territories, tribes, and local providers plan for and respond to be behavioral health needs after a disaster. Affected communities can request training and technical assistance. 1-800-308-3515

Resources for Teachers/Parents about Grieving Children

• National Center for School Crisis and Bereavement
• Coalition to Support Grieving Students

General Coping Tips

• APA – The Road to Resilience
• Tips for Survivors of a Disaster or Other Traumatic Event: Managing Stress

How to reach out to others

• National Alliance on Mental Illness – How to Help a Friend

Health, Wellness, Sleep

• National Alliance on Mental Illness – Complementary Health Approaches
• National Sleep Foundation

Media

• Dealing with the Media – Your Rights

Alternative Resources

• The Tapping Solution Foundation
• The Tapping Solution
• EFT Universe
• Health Journeys
• Energy Psychology
• Resources for Resilience
• Homicide Survivors Support Group in Chesapeake
• VA Legal Aid — navigate through legal aid services, resources on eligibility, and self-help forms with explanations on navigating the VA Court System rules and representing yourself