MONTGOMERY, Ala.(WSFA) – Gun violence is a public health crisis in America, according to the U.S. Surgeon General and health officials across the country. Earlier this year, health officials published a report He’s pushing for stricter gun laws and more research.

Victoria Floyd knows how serious the gun violence crisis is in America. He was shot while out with some friends in Montgomery in December 2020. He was an innocent bystander when a bullet changed his life.

“All I remember is the bullet pierced the wall and I fell to the ground. I couldn’t feel anything. I was suddenly paralyzed. “Instantly,” he said.

Victoria was paralyzed from the waist down and her life was changed forever. Years later, the physical scars and wheelchair are visible reminders of what happened outside. What you don’t see are the mental effects.

“How can I make my children believe that I will be okay, that their mother is strong, and that I can make it through this?” he asked.

According to statistics from the U.S. Office of the Surgeon General, shootings mentally affect survivors and their family members. The report shows that family members of gun violence victims are at higher risk for mental health problems including anxiety, mood disorders and more.

Allena Burbage is a therapist. Samaritan Counseling Centerspecializes in children and adolescents. Even if the child is not physically injured, the trauma from gun violence is still present, he says.

“This is called vicarious trauma or secondary trauma, which means we don’t have to have a direct trauma happen to us to experience the anxiety and stress that comes with being exposed to a trauma,” Burbage said.

In these situations, children often worry about their family members and their future, he said. Hearing and reading about shootings and gun violence in the news and on social media can strengthen these feelings.

Burbage recommends that victims and their families, whether direct or indirect victims of gun violence, see a therapist.

“I recommend people talk to their children, educate them, and let them express themselves,” she said.

Victoria was open with her children about their struggles and successes. Years later, he now wants to go back to work, buy a wheelchair-accessible car, and show his children that he can overcome violence.

“They have really been my backbone in showing me how strong I can be,” she said.

If you would like to support Victoria’s journey, she is a GoFundMe.

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