Impact of Public Shootings on Mental Health: Insights from a Trauma Psychiatrist

On September 10, 2025, the United States was struck by two devastating events occurring within minutes of each other in different states. In Utah, the nation’s attention was captured by the fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk on a college campus. Meanwhile, in Colorado, a high school shooting in a quiet mountain town left two teenagers critically injured and the shooter, a student, dead from self-inflicted gunfire. Although these incidents differed in circumstances, they shared profound consequences that can affect individuals and society for years to come.

As a trauma psychiatrist and researcher, I understand that exposure to such violence—whether direct or indirect—can profoundly impact mental health. Survivors of shootings may develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), a severe condition characterized by anxiety, avoidance, emotional numbness, and intrusive memories. Around 8% of the U.S. population suffers from PTSD, with survivors of mass shootings experiencing rates as high as 36%. These individuals often avoid places associated with trauma, and some grapple with survivor’s guilt, feeling they failed to help or did not deserve to survive.

Children and adolescents are particularly vulnerable, as exposure to school shootings or distressing news can alter their perception of safety and potentially have lasting effects on their mental and physical health.

The trauma extends beyond direct victims. First responders—including police, firefighters, dispatchers, and paramedics—who encounter horrific scenes and hear disturbing details, often face their own mental health challenges. Studies indicate that up to 20% of first responders exposed to mass violence develop PTSD.

Furthermore, those who are not directly involved but are exposed to news coverage or graphic images experience considerable distress. Repeated media exposure can heighten anxiety and symptoms of PTSD, fostering widespread fear that certain public places are unsafe. Social media amplifies this exposure, making violent content accessible to broad audiences instantaneously.

Despite these overwhelming impacts, there are pathways toward healing. Effective treatments, including psychotherapy, medication, and innovative technological tools like AI-driven simulations, can help individuals recover and regain a sense of safety. Children and teens, in particular, require targeted interventions to mitigate long-term consequences.

On a societal level, these tragedies reveal underlying divisions and political tensions. They underscore the need for collective action, policy change, and community support to prevent future violence and foster resilience. While negative emotions such as anger and fear are natural, channeling these feelings into activism and advocacy can promote meaningful change.

Lastly, it is essential to manage media consumption during times of collective trauma. Limiting news exposure and seeking balanced information helps reduce stress and prevents re-traumatization.

Understanding the psychological toll of shootings and similar acts of violence emphasizes the importance of mental health support for survivors, responders, and the wider community. Addressing these issues holistically can foster healing and unity in the face of adversity.