Gun violence survivors face many different health problems. Some may develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), with its associated memories, anxiety and depression symptoms.
Many of these health effects are felt most acutely by communities that have been subjected to both historical traumas and gun violence, creating an ongoing struggle to survive.
- Loss of Life
Firearm-related deaths and suicides leave behind an enormous toll in terms of lost lives, but other forms of gun violence can also have lasting repercussions. Living near a shooting can result in stress, anxiety, depression and learning difficulties among children who live nearby – which may last their entire lives.
Studies demonstrate the link between traumatic experiences such as these and subsequent mental health conditions or substance abuse for young people and gun violence, specifically shootings nearby and hospitalization for gun-related trauma in later years. According to one such research project, researchers discovered that children living near shootings are twice more likely to need hospitalization for gun related trauma.
Gun violence can also create feelings of helplessness, particularly among high-poverty communities that lack government investment. People affected may feel powerless to change things because no one seems concerned with their struggle; but by finding others with whom we share similar concerns and encouraging each other’s wellbeing we may be able to break the cycle of despair and find relief from its grip.
- Mental Health Issues
Gun violence has an enormous effect on communities, leaving lasting trauma for survivors. Multiple factors contribute to firearm homicide and suicide rates as well as disparate treatment for different races and ethnicities; thus its prevention requires an inclusive partnership approach among stakeholders working within local communities.
As the result of gun violence, many individuals experience mental health problems like depression and anxiety. Some even suffer from posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which may trigger nightmares, flashbacks, or trouble sleeping.
Survivalists of mass shootings may experience constant fear, particularly those belonging to groups targeted by hate crimes such as LGBTQ+ people, people of color or religious minorities.
After experiencing gun violence, it is crucial that individuals connect with those who share similar experiences. Positive social interactions release hormones which soothe the nervous system and can help you regain control over your emotions. Furthermore, it is also necessary to inform oneself on this issue and identify possible solutions.
- Economic Impact
Traumatic gun violence also has serious economic repercussions for individuals living in communities affected by repeat incidents. Victims and survivors can face costly medical bills associated with life-changing injuries that devastate families financially, and may suffer temporary loss of income – straining family finances to pay for essential services like food, housing, and education.
Losses associated with shootings include lost work productivity and reduced quality of life for those who survive them or have loved ones who perish, according to a Health Affairs study. Furthermore, gun deaths cost society billions each year due to health care expenses, productivity reduction and diminished quality of life repercussions.
Policies that address household and economic stability – through childcare subsidies, tax credits, affordable housing, livable wages and living wages – can reduce poverty and the associated risk factors for violence. Furthermore, community-based interventions like street outreach programs or mental health initiatives may connect people to resources they require.
- Family Issues
Gun violence can have serious repercussions for families and have lasting ramifications on children – both present and in adulthood. A recent study demonstrated this fact with evidence suggesting living near gun violence reduced children’s grades, increased dropout rates, caused depression and led to strain in relationships.
Surviving gun violence can also result in trauma for survivors. Focus groups reported feeling disconnected from their surroundings, uneasy or unsafe feelings and struggled with survivor guilt or shame as a result. They speculated about ways they could have prevented the shooting or felt guilty that others had died while they themselves survived.
Gun violence requires a comprehensive approach from all levels of society. Street outreach and hospital-based prevention programs can connect families to services they need, reduce stress levels in neighborhoods, and ward off future incidents. Housing assistance, childcare subsidies, tax credits, livable wages and affordable wages all have important roles to play in strengthening families economically while decreasing racial disparities and improving overall health outcomes. We should also raise public awareness regarding firearm-related crimes while advocating for laws to protect communities, families and individuals from further injury.
