Response to Texas School Shooting
May 25, 2022Dear BC Community,
Once again, we find ourselves mourning with the news of another mass shooting, this time at an elementary school in Texas that took the lives of 19 children and 2 teachers yesterday. Fourth graders. Nine and ten year olds. Our hearts go out to the victim’s families, and the tight-knit community of Uvalde, that will never be the same again.
Coming so soon in the wake of the shootings in Buffalo, NY and Laguna Woods, CA, the shockwaves are being felt across the nation, and in our own community. So senseless. Will this gun violence ever end?
These horrific acts of violence can make us feel hopeless, helpless, and disempowered. Which is why it’s so important to look to our own mental health, and the mental health of those we’re close to. Please take advantage of the resources listed below, or direct others to them. For parents who are struggling with how to talk to their children about this tragic event, the Seattle Times published an article today with guidance from health experts.
Bellevue College Resources
- Counseling Center: Counselors are trained mental health professionals who assist students with a wide variety of personal life challenges and concerns that may be affecting academic performance.
- Employee Assistance Program: Faculty and staff can contact the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) at 877-313-4455.
- Report a Concern: Report any concern in the Bellevue College community online, including worrying behaviors.
Community Mental Health Resources
- King County Mental Health Services: King County provides publicly-funded mental health services to low-income people in need.
- MulticulturalCounselors.org: The Washington Counselors of Color Network serves an array of ethnic clients needing counseling and therapy from providers who understand the specific needs of people of color and various cultures.
- Washington 211: Provides information on Washington’s mental health resources and other types of assistance. Call 2-1-1 or visit www.win211.org for more information.
Thank you for extending kindness and compassion to each other, and please practice self-care in these challenging times. Give your loved ones an extra-long and extra tight hug.
Gary Locke
Interim President