We are aware that some of our students may have viewed distressing material that was circulated online showing the fatal shooting at Utah Valley University last week. Young people who encounter content like this online may be struggling with what they have seen and read. If a child sees violent or distressing material, it is important to check in with them and talk to them about the content they have seen. Your support and willingness to give your child a space where they feel heard and listened to is an important step in allowing them to process this experience.
In this situation, The eSafety Commissioner also recommends the following steps:
- Report it to the platform
- Report it to eSafety at www.esafety.gov.au
- Do not share the video. Reposting graphic material increases the risk of trauma and can amplify harm
For more information about how to support young people who view distressing content online please refer to the fact sheet below: