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Children who survive school shootings often live with lifelong trauma. Studies show 28% develop PTSD, and 77% face severe anxiety. Their brains remain in survival mode, constantly alert for danger. School—the place meant for growth—becomes a site of fear.
Children who survive school shootings often live with lifelong trauma. Studies show 28% develop PTSD, and 77% face severe anxiety. Their brains remain in survival mode, constantly alert for danger. School—the place meant for growth—becomes a site of fear.
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The emotional impact is devastating. Panic attacks, nightmares, and depression are common. Some survivors experience survivor’s guilt, wondering why they lived when others didn’t. For many, the psychological wounds never fully heal.
Learning becomes nearly impossible. Studies reveal trauma disrupts memory and focus—essential skills for academic success. How can a child focus on math when every loud noise or unfamiliar face triggers the fear of another shooting?
The damage extends beyond survivors. Their classmates, teachers, and families face ripple effects. Parents live in fear of sending their kids to school, while teachers endure burnout and PTSD. A single shooting leaves entire communities fractured.
When my school went into lockdown, none of us knew what was happening. The announcement was brief and terrifying: “Lockdown. This is not a drill.” Everyone froze. Our teacher locked the door, and the room descended into silence and panic.
I found myself under a desk near the door and next to a window. I couldn’t stop staring at the door, wondering if someone might appear. My heart pounded, my breaths were shallow, and I felt completely exposed. I thought, This can’t be happening.
Rumors swirled. Two people were outside with guns. No one knew if they were students or strangers—or if they were coming inside. The unknown was suffocating. We only knew we had no way to protect ourselves.