New SAMHSA Resources to Support Mental Health After Gun Violence
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has released resources to help communities deal with the trauma and mental health effects of gun violence. These resources support the Biden-Harris Administration’s actions to reduce gun violence and are part of a broader strategy called the Biden Unity Agenda for the Nation.
HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra stated, “Gun violence in our communities is having a devastating impact on our nation’s mental health and well-being.” He emphasized that these resources aim to help those affected by this trauma.
Dr. Miriam E. Delphin-Rittmon, HHS Assistant Secretary for Mental Health and Substance Use, added, “The impact of violence and traumatic events can place an emotional toll on individuals, families, and communities.” SAMHSA aims to prepare the nation to meet behavioral health needs after such events through various funded programs.
The newly published resources by SAMHSA include:
- Tips for Survivors: Coping with Grief After Community Violence: This guide helps those impacted by gun violence understand grief and anger. It offers coping strategies, especially for children, and includes hotline numbers for further support.
- Behavioral Health Best Practice Resources for Addressing Trauma and Violence: A collection of best practices for coping with trauma after violent events. It covers resources for children, youth, and caregivers, as well as schools and responders.
- Strengthening Mental Health and Resilience after Community Violence: A Summary of Lessons Learned from ReCAST: This report shares insights from SAMHSA’s ReCAST program, which supports communities affected by gun violence. It includes strategies for promoting healing and resilience.
The Bipartisan Safer Communities Act (BSCA) provides $800 million to SAMHSA to improve mental health services. This funding supports 10 new ReCAST grants to help communities address behavioral health needs after traumatic events. These grants have assisted over 14,000 people and trained thousands of mental health professionals and community members in trauma-informed care and mental health literacy. The ReCAST program has reached more than 44,000 people through mental health awareness initiatives.
Effective strategies for healing and resilience can reduce the impact of trauma and lead to long-term positive outcomes. SAMHSA creates practical tips and best practices to help individuals and families recover after traumatic experiences.
If you or someone you know is in crisis, you can call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org. For support with mental health, drug, or alcohol issues, visit FindSupport.gov. To locate a treatment facility or provider, go to FindTreatment.gov or call 800-662-HELP (4357).