What is Gun Violence

This chapter explores how gun violence affects students' mental health, highlighting the need of comprehending the perspectives of both direct and indirect victims. It highlights the complicated issue's significance for public health by addressing rising rates of anxiety, despair, and PTSD among students. Less than 1% of firearm-related deaths in schools are caused by school shootings, despite an increase in these incidents. Economic instability, inequality, COVID-19, and gun suicides are all contributing issues. The chapter emphasises how critical it is to address issues related to mental health, particularly the racial disparities in treatment availability. School counsellors are essential in putting ideas into action, helping traumatised children, and encouraging academic achievement. To improve school safety, recommendations include tightening gun laws, involving the community, and providing mental health care. In reaction to gun violence, the chapter promotes a holistic strategy that gives students' mental health top priority.