Dec 01 2008
Handling the One-Year Anniversary of the Von Maur Shootings
The one year anniversary of the Von Maur shootings is fast approaching, and it is normal to feel anxious, depressed, sad, and fearful during this difficult time.
Von Maur is an upscale department store with locations in nine states that sells jewelry, apparel, gifts, accessories, shoes, and cosmetics, according to Wikipedia. On December 5, 2007, a 19-year-old male entered the Von Maur store located in the Westroads Mall in Omaha, Nebraska and shot and killed eight people. He also shot and wounded five others before killing himself.
Anyone who was involved in the shootings in any way may have a difficult time as the anniversary of the shootings approaches, and that is normal. You may feel anxious, sad, and/or fearful.
Yet, if these feelings significantly impact your ability to function in your daily life, you should seek out a mental health professional to talk with about your feelings and experiences.
Additionally, take extra good care of yourself during this time. Do something to pamper yourself - to make yourself feel good. Here are some ideas that might help you pamper yourself during this difficult and stressful time:
*Take a nice bubble bath
*Read a great book
*Buy yourself a specialty drink you don’t normally treat yourself to (or one that you do)
*Eat your favorite food
*Spend more time with friends
*Cuddle with your pet
*Write in your journal
*Do some art
*Take a nice walk, bike ride, or hike
It is also important to remember to take care of yourself during this time of year - eat well, get plenty of sleep, and make sure you get some exercise.
If you need to find a mental health professional to talk with in the Omaha area, you can call Behavioral Health Region 6 at: 402-444-6573 or the United Way at 211 for additional resources.
Sources:
Medical News Today: Normal to Experience Strong Feelings Related to One-Year Anniversary of Von Maur Shootings, Nebraska, USA
Wikipedia: Von Maur
