Mass murder, typically described as four or more unlawful killings in a single event and location, is among the most heinous acts in which humans engage. In the United States, acts of mass murder, particularly mass shootings, sow fear among individuals and shape culture—and culture wars—more broadly.
Can You Overcome Mass Shootings?
Yes — with the right support and approach, recovery from mass shootings is achievable for most people. Research shows that the majority of people who engage with evidence-based treatment experience significant improvement, and many achieve full recovery.
Recovery doesn't always mean elimination of all symptoms. For many people, it means learning to manage mass shootings so it no longer controls your life — building the skills, supports, and resilience to live fully despite occasional setbacks.
The Recovery Process: A Framework
Overcoming mass shootings typically follows a nonlinear path. Understanding the phases helps set realistic expectations:
Phase 1: Recognition and help-seeking Acknowledging that mass shootings is significantly impacting your life and deciding to seek support. This is often the hardest step.
Phase 2: Assessment and treatment planning Working with a professional to understand your specific mass shootings pattern, contributing factors, and evidence-based treatment options.
Phase 3: Active treatment Engaging with therapy, medication if appropriate, and lifestyle changes. Expect ups and downs — setbacks are normal, not failures.
Phase 4: Consolidation and maintenance Building on gains, developing relapse prevention skills, and gradually reducing professional support as independence grows.
Phase 5: Post-recovery thriving Using insights from overcoming mass shootings to build a life aligned with your values. Many people report that navigating mass shootings ultimately contributed to profound personal growth.
Recovery-Oriented Strategies
Mental illness is often deemed the culprit after a mass shooting. Yet research consistently demonstrates that there is a weak link between mass shootings and mental illness . Research also shows that people with mental illness are far more likely to be the victim of a violent crime than the perpetrator. A study published in the journal Psychology, Public Policy, and Law examined the mental health histories of 176 mass shooters between 1966 and 2020. The research showed that psychosis was deemed to have played a major role in 11 percent of shootings, a moderate role in 9 percent of cases, and a
Step-by-Step Action Plan
This week:
- Schedule an appointment with a mental health professional
- Tell one trusted person what you're going through
- Introduce one evidence-based coping technique daily
This month:
- Complete a full assessment and begin treatment
- Establish sleep, exercise, and nutrition routines
- Join a support group or online community
Ongoing:
- Practice skills consistently, even on good days
- Monitor progress and adjust treatment as needed
- Celebrate small wins and acknowledge growth
Maintaining recovery from mass shootings involves staying connected to your support system, continuing evidence-based practices, recognizing early warning signs, and having a plan for difficult periods.
Building a Life Beyond Mass Shootings
Overcoming mass shootings is not just about symptom reduction — it's about building a life worth living. This means:
- Identity expansion: Developing aspects of yourself beyond the struggle
- Meaningful pursuits: Investing in work, relationships, and activities that matter
- Contribution: Many people find helping others who face mass shootings deeply meaningful
- Post-traumatic growth: The challenges of mass shootings can generate real wisdom and resilience