Supporting Your Teen After Parkland

Q: Why does the Parkland anniversary feel so hard for teens and parents?
A: February 14th marks eight years since the tragedy at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida. Seventeen students and staff members lost their lives that day. For many Florida families, this date can bring back big fears about school safety.

Q: If my teen feels scared about school, is that normal?
A: Yes. You are not alone. Many Florida families feel this too. The good news is that with support and simple steps, your teen can feel safer and more confident again.

Q: Why is my teen so worried about school safety?
A: There are a few common reasons:

• Teens’ brains are still growing. Big, scary news can feel extra intense.

• Teens understand more than little kids do, so they may picture “what if” a lot.

• Social media can replay scary stories again and again, and it can feel close.

• Your teen may know someone who has been in a lockdown, which makes it feel very real.

Q: How do I start a talk with my teen about school safety fears?
A: Keep it simple.

• Pick a calm time, like a car ride or dinner.

• Ask open questions like, “What’s been on your mind about school?”

• Listen first. Let them talk without rushing to fix it.

• Stay calm. Your steady voice helps them feel safe.

• Be honest, but hopeful. Say, “It’s scary, and I’m here with you. We will get through this.”

Q: What signs may mean my teen needs extra support?
A: Look for changes that last more than two weeks, like:

• Trouble sleeping or more nightmares

• Headaches or stomachaches (often on school days)

• Big worry that won’t calm down

• Panic feelings (fast heart, shaky, hard to breathe)

• More anger, more crying, or pulling away from friends

• Refusing school, missing school, or grades dropping

• Feeling hopeless

You can also compare your teen’s symptoms with our Symptoms we treat page.

Q: What can I say to my teen about school shootings?
A: Try words like these.

A (for middle school):
“I know you may hear scary stuff online or from friends. It’s okay to feel worried. Most schools have safety plans. If you feel scared, talk to me or a trusted adult.”

A (for high school):
“This week may bring up heavy feelings. What happened was real, and your feelings make sense. Your school has safety plans, and adults work on safety every day. If fear is taking over, we will get help together.”

Q: What should I avoid saying?
A: Avoid:

• “You’re being dramatic.”

• “That will never happen here.”

• “Don’t think about it.”

• “Just be tougher.”

Q: What should I say instead?
A: Say:

• “Your feelings make sense.”

• “I’m here. You can talk to me.”

• “Let’s make a plan that helps you feel safer.”

• “It’s okay to ask for help.”

Q: How can I help my teen feel safer without making them more scared?
A: Use small, steady steps:

• Talk about real safety steps at school (exits, who to go to, what drills mean).

• Make a simple family plan for pickup and messages.

• Limit scary videos and news when it’s too much.

• Focus on what your teen can control (friends, choices, asking for help).

• Keep normal life going (sports, clubs, fun time).

• Practice calming skills together (slow breathing, walks, music).

Q: When should I reach out for professional mental health help?
A: Reach out if:

• Your teen can’t get to school because of fear

• Panic attacks are happening

• You’ve tried talking, but nothing is getting better

• Your teen says they don’t want to live or feels hopeless

• You feel stuck and need a plan

Q: How can Sunset Behavioral Health help?
A: At Sunset Behavioral Health, we help Florida teens work through anxiety, trauma, and stress tied to school safety fears. Care is warm, simple, and focused on real-life coping skills. Visits are virtual, so your teen can get help from home.

Want to learn how care works step by step? Read What to expect from Treatment.

Q: Is there hope for my teen?
A: Yes. There is real hope. With the right support, teens can:

• Feel calmer at school

• Sleep better

• Enjoy friends and activities again

• Feel strong and confident, even after scary events

The Parkland anniversary can be a hard reminder. It can also be a moment to choose support and healing—starting now.

Q: What is the next step I can take today?
A: Book a free 15-minute consultation. You can be seen within 48 hours. In that free call, you can:

• Share what’s going on with your teen

• Ask questions

• Learn about insurance and payment options

• See if Sunset Behavioral Health is a good fit

Use our Contact Us page to get started, or book here: You can also call 239-790-8822.

A: Your teen deserves to feel safe, confident, and hopeful again. Help is close, and you don’t have to do this alone.

Sunset Behavioral Health serves families throughout Florida with compassionate, evidence-based telehealth services. We speak English and Spanish, and we’re here to support your family’s mental health journey.