Our hearts and deepest sympathies are with everyone affected by this weekend’s tragic accident in Schoharie. The American Red Cross is working in close coordination with emergency officials to provide emotional support to those involved, including family and community members, as well as first responders.

This is a difficult time for everyone touched by this tragedy, and it’s important for people to connect with and support each other. The Red Cross offers the following tips to help people cope:

  • People may be experiencing many different emotions, including sadness, grief, anger, confusion, fear, shock, and disbelief. Keep in mind that these are all normal feelings.
  • Be patient with yourself and with others. It’s common to have any number of temporary stress reactions such as anger, frustration, and anxiety.
  • Spend time with family and friends, and offer your support. Talk about what happened and how you are feeling. Hug one another and listen.
  • Watch for signs of stress in your family, friends and children. Reach out if help is needed, and accept help from others.
  • Stay informed but limit exposure to media coverage of the event, especially for children.
  • Let children talk about their feelings, and then reassure them. Talk with them in ways they can easily understand. Let them guide the conversation, and share details only when they ask about them.
  • Take care of yourself. Eat healthy, drink plenty of water, and get enough rest.

To reach out for free 24/7 counseling or support, contact the Disaster Distress Helpline at 1-800-985-5990 or text “TalkWithUs’ to 66746. Additional coping resources are available at redcross.org.