215: Crisis Text Line on Keeping Those We Love Safe from Trauma and Firearm Violence

We've said it before and we'll say it again: gun violence is a public health crisis. It's an ongoing emergency that impacts more than just our physical safety, it also impacts our mental and emotional health. Even if you haven't experienced gun violence firsthand, folks across America are struggling to deal with the trauma of being constantly under fire.  So what to do with those feelings? Well, there are lot of ways to cope with your trauma — and one of them is to reach out and speak with someone who understands. Today, hosts Kelly and JJ sat down with Courtney Hunter, Vice President Public Policy and Advocacy at Crisis Text Line.

Courtney breaks down why meeting folks where they are, culturally aware communication, and trauma informed care is so important. 

Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a volunteer Crisis Counselor, 24/7, in English or Spanish.

Want to get involved?
Urge your senators to expand and strengthen background checks.
Join a Brady chapter near you and sign up to attend our new volunteer session.

Further reading:
How To Cope With Gun Violence (Crisis Text Line)
On Trauma, Racism, and How We Show Up for Each Other (Crisis Text Line)
Mental Health, Gun Violence, And Why America Connects Them (NPR)
What Gun Violence Does to Our Mental Health (NY Times)

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Full transcripts and bibliographies of this episode are available at bradyunited.org/podcast.

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255.
In a crisis? Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a Crisis Counselor 24/7.

Music provided by: David “Drumcrazie” Curby
Special thanks to Hogan Lovells for their long-standing legal support
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