Knife attack in Annecy: how to support traumatized victims?

Published

Video length: 2 min.

FRANCE 2

Article written by

M.Subra-Gomez, O.Martin C.Vérove, A.Richier, M.Nadal V.Bouffartigue, F.Cerulli, J.Cohen-Olivieri – France 2

France Televisions

In Annecy, the city is in shock after a knife attack that killed six people. In order to support witnesses and victims, a psychological unit was set up on Friday, June 9. 210 people have already benefited from it.

Find the words that soothe after the shock. A psychological unit has been set up in Annecy (Haute-Savoie). 210 people have already been taken care of, mainly direct witnesses. But in front of a school in the town, Friday, June 9, the attack affects parents and children.My daughter asks a lot of questions. We try to respond in a pragmatic way.”testifies a mother who is worried about the silence of her son. In 2012, at the Jewish school in Toulouse (Haute-Garonne), children had already been targeted. Four years later, children were victims of a terrorist attack in Nice (Alpes-Maritimes).

Pay attention to warning signs

According to Michele Battistaa child psychiatrist, the events should not be discussed with toddlers. Try to move on, without forgetting… In Annecy, Yusuf Méric is recovering from his injury inflicted by the assailant and a police shot. Psychological follow-up was offered to him, but he says he does not feel the need. Experts recommend not to overlook the effects of post-traumatic stress. Flashes or persistent nightmares may occur after such events.


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