In the wake of a tragic school shooting that shook Tumbler Ridge, the community is faced with the need for sustained mental health support to aid in the recovery process. Ronda Cantin, a mother of three whose daughter was at Tumbler Ridge Secondary during the attack, emphasizes the crucial role of long-term care in helping survivors cope with the aftermath of the tragedy.
As the town mourns the loss of six lives, including students and a teacher’s aide, concerns arise about the psychological well-being of those affected. Immediate crisis response has been appreciated, but the focus now shifts to ensuring ongoing support for the students grappling with trauma and loss.
Temporary facilities are being set up at Tumbler Ridge Elementary to allow secondary students to continue their education in a different environment while the high school building remains a crime scene. Portable classrooms and other amenities are being installed to facilitate the return to in-person learning.
Cantin highlights the need for consistent and accessible mental health care, especially for children experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). She expresses worries about the lack of permanent resources in the town, which has long struggled with healthcare shortages, including a recent loss of doctors.
While additional mental health supports are being provided by Northern Health, confusion persists regarding how and when these services can be accessed. Cantin stresses the importance of clear communication and a reliable system for those seeking help during this challenging time.
Local community groups are mobilizing to establish sustainable mental health resources, recognizing the limitations of the current system. Cantin acknowledges the dedication of volunteers and organizations working to fill the gaps in care but emphasizes the need for more consistent and adequately resourced support.
As Tumbler Ridge navigates the aftermath of the tragedy, the focus remains on ensuring that survivors, particularly the students, have access to the mental health care they need to heal and rebuild their lives.