Nancy Monson, a health coach, comments on the touching message on a sign written in chalk in a town 30 min outside of Newton, CT:  a town that has become known for the deadly elementary school  shooting two weeks ago today.  Nancy spreads the idea of engaging in 26 acts of kindness in honor of the 26 people who lost their lives in this tragedy.

Such acts of violence often leave us feeling uncertain, anxious, and helpless overall.  Yet many people are left with a strong pull to do “something.”  In fact, this unresolved vague feeling is frequently the impetus behind some individual’s inclination to point fingers to external reasons for massacre such as the educational system or gun laws, or mental illness.  However, these arguments do little to assuage our sense of dis-ease.

Psychologically, one powerful method of coping is to focus in on what is good and what good we can become involved in right now.  Even during the crisis it is advisable to direct our attention to the helpers and heros such as police and kind strangers who offered assistance.  At the same time it’s crucial to minimize immersion in repetitive images of violence in the media.  Next, doing good can be a way to combat strong feelings of loss of control.  Those who are in a position to provide monetary support may find it personally rewarding to do so.  Alternately, finding a way to help others in need, even if not directly related to the tragedy, can help build back a feeling of empowerment.  For more ideas and to read Nancy’s post visit http://creativewellness.us/blog/2012/12/peace-and-love-newtown.

Please share additional tips you may have found helpful in coping with such tragedies.