Unforgettable Tragedy

Toronto has experienced a tragedy. Yesterday, a man decided to drive up on a sidewalk and hit walking pedestrians who were going about their everyday life. My heart aches for the families who were affected by this senseless attack. This type of distress can cause shock to anyone surrounding the area, and I wanted to write up this emergency post for people who need to reach out.

First and foremost, I want to reiterate that it’s normal to feel scared after something like this hits close to home. Do not avoid these feelings. Anxiety can easily overwhelm most people – do not feel defeated if you feel this way. It’s very important to talk about how you feel with someone even if you weren’t directly related to it. It’s so easy for us to close up when tragedy strikes but I urge you to reach out to a professional if you think you cannot cope with it on your own.

Toronto never ceases to amaze me, the outpour of support is almost palpable, and I want to make sure all of this information is available:

• If you live in the area and are displaced you can head over to Mitchell Field Community Centre where emergency social services and accommodations are being offered.
• If you are under the age of 29, What’s Up Walk-In is offering free counseling sessions with no appointment needed
• Distress Centre Ottawa is also offering support for Residents who might be out of town: 613-238-3311
• Morneau Shepell has opened up a national crisis support line at 1-844-751-2133

The following helplines are also available:
Toronto Distress Centre: 416-408-4357

Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868

Gerstein Centre: 416-929-5200

Victim Services Toronto: 416-808-7066

The PARO 24 Hour Helpline: 1-866-435-7362

LGBT Youth Line: 1-800-268-9688