How We Support Young People

Written By CHOOSE 180

We asked our team to share advice on supporting young people after community violence. Keep reading to hear from:

  • Darius (he/him) - Mental Health Specialist

  • Daicia (she/her) - Expressive Arts
    Therapist

  • Seth (he/him) - Program Coordinator, School-Based Diversion

  • Evangejalynn (she/her) - Program Coordinator, School-Based Diversion

  • Dante (he/him) - Program Coordinator, School-Based Diversion

What advice would you give to young people after community violence?

  • Seth - I would tell the young person to stay strong, support their family and community during this time, and let this experience serve as motivation for change in your community.

  • Daicia - I would hold space for them to let me know how they are feeling about the situation. The advice I would give would be related to taking care of their own mental health and their own safety. I would have a conversation about communication and violence. I would have a conversation about how our emotions can take control of our actions and this could lead to us acting out in violent ways. This is why it is important for us to talk about and learn positive mindsets. 

  • Dante - #1 Important thing to me is their safety, and mental health. I’d let the young person know to protect their peace, stay safe, and let them know I’m here if they want to talk. I’d also give the young person resources to mental health professionals. 

  • Darius - I’d tell them the truth, that what happened is heavy and unfair, and it makes sense if it shook them in ways they don’t even have words for yet. I’d let them know they don’t have to pretend they’re okay with me, that it’s alright if it hurts, and that I’m here to sit in the hard parts with them until they feel steady again.

Are there coping strategies you can recommend?

  • Evangejalynn - Write down all your feelings (anger hurt or whatever you’re feeling) then burn it safely and release it or rip it up. 

  • Daicia - Journaling, talking to someone you trust, identifying safe/unsafe spaces. Joining support groups, meeting mentors with lived experiences. 

  • Dante - Remember to breathe, and take time to reflect and process your thoughts

  • Darius -I usually suggest starting with something simple like slowing down and focusing on your breathing, just to help your body calm a little. Then I encourage them to lean into something that makes them feel alive or grounded, whether that’s basketball, going for a walk, hitting the gym, doing yoga, or even writing things out, anything that helps release what they’re carrying instead of holding it all in.

What advice would you give people wanting to support young people after community violence?

  • Evangejalynn - Find a non profit (CHOOSE 180, Project Pushers, Creative Justice) and see how you can help support. Become a member of community safety teams

  • Daicia - Supporting nonprofits that support youth. Find ways to support youth who aren’t able to join sports or afterschool programs due to financial barriers. Look into the history of violence. Knowledge and understanding are key for us to not repeat history or perpetuate a culture that accepts violence. 

  • Darius - I would first say that you have to be emotionally prepared to hold space for something that heavy, because showing up for youth after community violence isn’t light work. Approach them in a way that feels real and relatable so they feel safe, not judged or talked down to. And don’t try to do it alone, partner with local organizations already doing the work so you can offer support that’s informed, grounded, and actually helpful.

Do you have any resources that you’d like to share with young people and their families after community violence?

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Advocacy Q&A with Julissa