We live only an hour away from Ft. Hood, and since I work with veterans who have PTSD, this tragedy has struck close to home. As we watch the news I realize that there is still so much that is unknown, but here I stayed glued to the TV, while the same information is repeated until new information is received.
Whenever people experience trauma, it's helpful for them to be able to tell their story, even if it is over and over. Be a friend and listen. Trying to smooth it over for them gives the message that you just want them to get over it, when they need to get through it, not over it--we don't get OVER things immediately. Our emotions just don't work that way. Saying things like, "it sounds like it was scary;" or even "I'm sorry," or just sitting, listening, being a shoulder for those sobs--those are helpful and effective ways to help. Asking lots of questions is not.
As General Cone says, "our hearts and prayers go out to all the families and friends of those who were killed or injured."
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