Psychological Considerations in the Aftermath of School Sudden Mass Casualty Incidents

Abstract

When shooting occurs at schools, a chaos phase transpires within the school setting. It is important that every school district has an updated crisis manual to outline particular procedures, to reduce the severity of the chaos period. Once the first responders, such as fireman, policeman, and paramedics, address and stabilize the injured students and faculty, then the mental health first responders step in. Mental health services following a sudden mass casualty incident (SMCI) within the school is critical because it has the possibility to decrease the likelihood of further psychological trauma. Every school should have a designated crisis leader, preferably with mental health background.