At a time when so many of us are struggling to understand what happened at Sandy Hook Elementary School, the truth is, it’s beyond explanation. What we do know is that youth violence is on the rise, and it has reached unparalleled levels in our society. We also know that people who commit these acts of violence typically act this way because of one or more of the following:

• Expression:  Some people use violence to release feelings of anger or frustration. They
  think there are no answers to their problems, and they turn to violence to
  express their out-of-control emotions.
• Manipulation:  Violence may be used as a way to control others or get something they
  want–retaliation. It is used to retaliate against those who have hurt them or
  someone they care about.
• Violence  is a Learned Behavior: Like all learned behaviors, it can be changed, but
  it isn’t easy. Since there is no single cause, there is no singular simple
  solution. The best thing you can do is to learn to recognize the warning signs
  of violence and to get help when you see it in your yourself, your friends, or
  a member of your family.

Be aware that people who act violently have trouble controlling their feelings. These individuals may have been hurt by others, and they may think that making people fear them through violence or threats of violence will solve their problems or earn them respect. If you notice these immediate warning signs in an individual, realize that violence is a serious possibility:

• loss of temper on a daily basis
• frequent physical fighting
• significant vandalism or property damage
• increase in drug or alcohol use
• increase in risk-taking behaviors
• detailed plans to commit acts of violence
• announcing threats or plans for hurting others
• enjoying hurting animals
• carrying weapons

If you notice the following signs over a period of time,  realize that the potential for violence exists:

• history of violence or aggressive behaviors
• serious drug or alcohol use
• gang membership or strong desire to be in a gang
• access to or fascination with weapons–especially
  guns
• threatening others regularly
• trouble controlling feelings like anger
• withdrawal from friends and usual activities
• feeling rejected or alone
• having been a victim of bullying
• poor school performance
• history of discipline problems or frequent run-ins
  with the authorities
• feeling constantly disrespected
• failing to acknowledge the feelings or rights of
  others

Here’s the bottom line: If you know someone who is struggling, reach out and get that person some professional help. If he or she refuses, don’t give up. Remember that if there is one person you can help today, there is one less dangerous person out there. And if you are the one who is struggling, seek out the help you need. Do something about it so you can feel better.