As we take time to absorb and reflect on the tragic mass shooting that took place in Buffalo, NY this past Saturday, we want to express our deepest sympathies and most sincere condolences to the families, friends, and communities of the victims.

For members of our campus community who may be in need of someone to talk to, or are seeking support to process the events of this past Saturday, please see the information provided below.

Students
For students who need to talk, Counseling Services is available to SUNY Broome students. Students can stop in to the Science Building room 102, Monday through Friday, from 8:00 am – 5:00 pm. Students not on campus may call +1 (607) 778-5210 to speak with a counselor. SUNY Broome counselors are available 8:00 am – 5:00 pm with after-hours phone coverage after 5:00 pm. 

24/7 support is available via Togetherall peer support program which can help students navigate some of the feelings and stress that they are experiencing right now. Our Counseling Services Virtual Office provides more resources and self-care techniques.

To access Togetherall, the Virtual Office or to find out more information and support for students, please visit the Counseling Services website.

Employees
Employee Assistance Program staff are available to provide support to faculty and staff; they can be reached at +1 (800) 327-2255.

Public Safety
Although there is no active threat to campus, we want to assure all our students and employees that the safety of our community is of utmost importance. Any questions regarding safety and security can be addressed to: publicsafety@sunybroome.edu or +1 (607) 778-5083.

Coping in the Aftermath of a Shooting

  • Attend to self care. While it may seem counterintuitive to think about taking care of yourself first, you cannot be of service to others if you are unstable. Monitor all of your physical health needs – be sure to eat, sleep, exercise, and (if possible) maintain a normal daily routine.
  • Pay attention to your emotional health. Remember that a wide range of feelings during these difficult times are common. Know that others are also experiencing emotional reactions and may need your time and patience to put their feelings and thoughts in order.
  • Try to recognize when you or those around you may need extra support. It is not uncommon for individuals of all ages to experience stress reactions when exposed (even through media) to shootings or mass violence. Changes in eating and sleeping habits, energy level, and mood are important signs of distress. Watch for regressed behaviors, such as clinging in children and intense emotional reactions, such as anxiety or a strong need for retribution in adults. When necessary, point individuals to licensed professional counselors who can provide needed support.
  • Avoid overexposure to media. While it is important to stay informed, media portrayals of shootings and mass deaths have been shown to cause acute stress and post-traumatic stress symptoms. Limit your exposure and take a break from news sources.
  • Maintain contact with friends and family. These individuals can provide you with emotional support to help deal with difficult times.
  • Focus on your strength base. Maintain practices that you have found to provide emotional relief. Remind yourself of people and events which are meaningful and comforting.
  • Talk to others as needed. It is important to ask for help if you are having trouble recovering and everyday tasks seem difficult to manage.

 

Local and National Resources:

  • Togetherall can be accessed for peer to peer support 24/7
  • Disaster Distress Helpline: SAMHSA
  • Contact the Crisis Text Line by texting HOME to 741741
  • If in the Binghamton area, call the Crisis Center at +1 (607) 762-2302.
  • The Mental Health Association of the Southern Tier Warm Line at +1 (607) 240-7291.
    • The Mental Health Association of the Southern Tier (MHAST) offers a peer-run, 24/7 warm line in Binghamton. A warm line is an alternative to a crisis line that is run by “peers,” generally those who have had their own experiences of trauma that they are willing to speak of and acknowledge.