This browser does not support the Video element.
Helping kids dealing with trauma
FOX 26 Anchor Rashi Vats has more on what parents can do to help their kids deal with the trauma of the AstroWorld Festival.
HOUSTON - The tragedy at AstroWorld is affecting more people than you may think.
Counseling services are being offered, and it’s a tool that parents may really want to consider for their child whether or not they went to the concert.
RELATED: Parent to Parent: The best parenting style
"My own son who is 17 years old, high school in Fort Bend County, he says that’s all they are talking about at school right now. They are talking about this traumatic event that happened in our city, so it is impacting so many people on so many different levels," said Tiffanie Williams-Brooks, who is a licensed professional counselor with The Harris Center for Mental Health and IDD.
Most recently, they have been helping adolescents impacted by Friday’s tragedy.
RELATED: Parent to parent: When does shouting at your children go too far?
Your child might be suffering and you or them, might not even know the impact.
"It is everywhere right now. I would tell parents who are struggling with this or wondering how this is impacting my child, ask that question," said Williams-Brooks. "It is ok to ask questions, it is ok to find out, if you want to hang out with him, I need to talk to that parent. I need to talk to his mother, but a lot of parents feel as I stated earlier, that once a kid gets to a certain age- they can do this on their own. No, that child still needs a parent involved, they still need to be directed. They still need to be supported and guided. They aren’t adults yet," she said.
Educating parents of the red flags is key, according to Williams-Brooks.
They include:
-being on their phone for a long time
-not socializing
-not eating as much
-being secretive
Taking them to a professional counselor could be a lifesaver.
FOR THE LATEST NEWS UPDATES, DOWNLOAD THE FOX 26 NEWS APP
We are continuing the conversation about this crucial matter Thursday on our Livestream on our social media platforms at 3:30 p.m. with the Harris Center. I can answer your questions, so please be sure to join.
If you want more information on how The Harris Center can help, click here.