The number of school shootings and mass shootings has rapidly increased. As a sensitive topic, many people don’t discuss the effects these incidents have on people. No matter who it is, be the people involved, having family or friends involved, or just being nearby when the shooting took place, the effects can be major. Witnessing a shooting can have short-term and long-term impacts on people. 

This year, 2023, there have been fourteen school shootings so far. Last year, there were fifty-one; 2018 had the most school shootings, totaling up to 158. Regarding school shootings, students and staff that witness this can, and likely will, suffer from traumatic stress symptoms, anxiety, and depression. Schools are a place where students should feel safe and comfortable. However, when a shooting occurs, many students and staff will start doubting their safety. School shootings have lasting ramifications for families. They often impact the relationships between community members such as the school, parents, law enforcement, and local government. 

Over the past couple of years, mass shootings have increased in number drastically. Mass shootings this year have so far totaled up to more than 140. At the end of 2022, there were 636 mass shootings. In 2021 there were 686 shootings, and in 2020 there were 605. Mass shootings can also negatively impact mental health. Arash Javanbahkt, M.D., explained that humans experience stress and terror when exposed to a dangerous event. The levels of this stress may vary depending on the person. He wrote, “Survivors of a shooting may want to avoid the neighborhood where the shooting occurred or the context related to the shooting, such as grocery stores if the shooting happened at one.” People who have experienced a mass shooting may develop post-traumatic stress disorder. 

Traumatic events, such as school or mass shootings, can cause emotional distress to survivors and the loved ones of victims. First responders, rescue workers, and recovery workers may also experience emotional distress due to the event. Checking in on those affected by the shooting often is crucial to remember. Parents must watch over and monitor their children if their school recently went through a shooting incident, whether or not they knew anyone who was injured.