How the Average Person Can Help Prevent Mass Shootings: A Therapist’s Guide to Advocacy and Action

Each time a mass shooting happens, many of us feel a wave of grief, fear, and helplessness. We wonder if things will ever change. We ask ourselves, “What can I possibly do?”

As therapists, we understand how overwhelming it can be to process repeated tragedy. But we also believe in the power of individual and collective action. Preventing mass shootings isn’t just the job of policymakers or mental health professionals—it’s something we all have a role in.

Here’s how the average person can help prevent mass shootings, grounded in compassion, advocacy, and a shared responsibility for creating safer communities.

1. Challenge the Myths Around Mental Health and Violence

One of the most harmful narratives in the aftermath of a mass shooting is the idea that mental illness is to blame. This myth not only stigmatizes people living with mental health conditions, but it also distracts from the real drivers of gun violence—like easy access to firearms, domestic violence, hate-based ideologies, and systemic failures.

You can help by:

• Speaking up when people equate violence with mental illness

• Sharing facts on social media about the real causes of mass shootings

• Supporting mental health without using it as a scapegoat

2. Advocate for Common-Sense Gun Laws

While mental health care is essential, access to firearms is the strongest predictor of gun violence, including mass shootings. Research shows that countries with stricter gun laws have fewer mass shootings—it's that simple.

You don’t have to be a politician to make an impact:

• Contact your local representatives and urge them to support common-sense gun safety measures

• Support organizations working to end gun violence, such as Everytown for Gun Safety or Moms Demand Action

• Use your voice in local elections—your vote matters

3. Address Warning Signs—Without Stigmatizing Others

Sometimes, there are red flags before a violent event. These can include expressions of violent ideation, obsession with weapons, threats, or domestic abuse. Many mass shooters have a history of violence toward women or marginalized groups.

What you can do:

• Take threats seriously and report them to authorities or school/workplace officials

• Support friends and family who are experiencing domestic violence

• Learn about behavioral threat assessment models in your local schools or organizations

Importantly, avoid assuming someone is dangerous just because they’re struggling with their mental health. Focus on behavior, not diagnosis.

4. Support Mental Health Access—For Everyone

While mental illness isn't the root cause of mass shootings, expanding access to mental health care does make our communities safer, more connected, and more resilient. It helps people manage conflict, cope with stress, and find alternatives to violence.

Ways to help:

• Normalize therapy and talk openly about your mental health journey

• Support legislation that funds community mental health services

• Volunteer or donate to organizations offering free or low-cost therapy

5. Foster a Culture of Connection and Inclusion

Isolation, loneliness, and hate thrive when people feel disconnected. We all play a part in building a society that values empathy, inclusion, and accountability.

What that looks like:

• Creating inclusive environments at work, school, or in your faith community

• Teaching children emotional regulation, empathy, and conflict resolution

• Checking in on people who seem isolated or are struggling

When we invest in community well-being, we help prevent the conditions that lead to violence.

6. Take Care of Your Own Mental Health, Too

It’s hard to stay engaged and take action when you’re burned out, overwhelmed, or living in fear. That’s why part of preventing mass shootings includes prioritizing your mental wellness.

Try to:

• Limit doomscrolling and take breaks from the news when needed

• Talk to a therapist about your fears, grief, or anger

• Connect with others who are also working toward positive change

Therapy isn’t just for when things are falling apart—it’s a tool for staying grounded, resilient, and purposeful in difficult times.

7. Practice—and Promote—Responsible Gun Ownership

If you’re a gun owner, you have a vital role to play in helping prevent gun violence, including mass shootings. Responsible gun ownership isn’t just about safety at home—it’s a commitment to community safety, too.

Whether you own firearms for sport, hunting, or personal protection, here’s how you can help:

• Store guns securely using gun safes, lockboxes, or trigger locks

• Keep firearms unloaded and separate from ammunition, especially if children or vulnerable individuals are in the home

• Support mandatory background checks, waiting periods, and red flag laws that allow temporary removal of firearms from individuals at risk of harming themselves or others

• Educate others about safe gun storage and responsible handling

• Speak up in gun-owning communities about the importance of safety, accountability, and preventing misuse

Gun ownership and gun safety advocacy are not mutually exclusive. In fact, many responsible gun owners support common-sense regulations that save lives while respecting rights.

A Final Word of Hope

Preventing mass shootings isn’t a simple task—but it isn’t hopeless, either. Every call, every vote, every conversation, and every act of care adds up. You don’t have to have all the answers. You just have to show up, speak out, and support the systems and people creating change.

Looking for support or someone to talk to?
My therapy practice is here to help you process the emotional weight of living in a world affected by violence—and to empower you to care for yourself while working toward a better future. Reach out today if you need extra support.

Related Article: How to Cope After a Mass Shooting