Dec 17, 2024
MADISON, WI – NAMI National, NAMI Wisconsin, and NAMI Dane County, the national, state, and local offices of the National Alliance on Mental Illness, are deeply saddened by the devastating shooting and loss of life at Abundant Life Christian School in Madison, Wisc. yesterday. With each school shooting, there is a lasting and far-reaching impact on the mental health of the people in the community – and across the country. NAMI stands ready to support everyone impacted by this trauma.
“Schools should be a safe haven for children and teachers. Tragically, that safety was shattered with the shooting at Abundant Life Christian School yesterday,” said Mary Kay Battaglia, Executive Director of NAMI Wisconsin. “For anyone who needs it, NAMI is here. Our resources are available to anyone who could use support during this difficult time.”
“We are devastated by this tragedy in Madison. Our community needs healing, and we know that many are struggling in the wake of yesterday’s events,” said Jeanne McLellan, Executive Director of NAMI Dane County, which includes Madison. “Please remember that you are not alone, and NAMI is here to help.”
“We should all be able to send our kids to school with the knowledge that it is a place for learning and community, not tragedy and horror,” said Daniel H. Gillison, Jr., CEO of NAMI National. “This senseless violence causes immense trauma and harm to so many people’s mental health, particularly children and their families. We stand united to support the people of Wisconsin and all who are impacted by these events.”
NAMI urges anyone who is struggling or needs to talk in the wake of this tragedy to reach out to a friend, family member, or to NAMI for support.
For more mental health resources and coping skills, see the resources below:
National Crisis and Support Lines
- If you or a loved one is experiencing a mental health crisis, call or text “9-8-8” to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
- NAMI National HelpLine: Contact NAMI’s support line via phone at 1-800-950-NAMI (6264), by texting “HelpLine” to 62640, or chat online at NAMI.org/help, available Mon-Fri from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. ET/9 a.m. to 9 p.m. CT. The NAMI Teen & Young Adult HelpLine is available by calling the above number, texting “Friend” to 62640, or chatting online.
NAMI Dane County Resources & Support Groups
Local Youth & Family Resources in Madison/Dane County Area
NAMI Resources & Support Groups
Resources for Educator Wellness
Resources for Student Support
Resources for First Responders
- Rock & Green County First Responder Peer Support & Resilience Team: Call 608-289-2110 to reach a 24/7 hotline to obtain support from a Rock and Green County First Responder
- Safe Call Now: 1-877-230-6060. This confidential, comprehensive, 24-hour crisis referral service is for all public safety employees, all emergency services personnel and their family members nationwide.
- Fire/EMS Helpline: 1-888-731-FIRE (3473). Confidential and 24-hour, the Fire/EMS Helpline was created for first responders by members of the fire service. This program is specifically designed to meet the unique needs of firefighters, EMTs, rescue personnel and their families.
- Copline: 1-800-267-5463. This resource is a confidential, 24-hour law enforcement officer hotline manned by retired law enforcement officers trained in active listening.
