MONTGOMERY, AL (WSFA) – Gun violence is a public health crisis in the United States, according to the U.S. surgeon general and national health officials. Earlier this year, health officials published a report pushing for stricter gun laws and more research.

Victoria Floyd knows how serious the gun violence crisis is in America. In December 2020, she was shot to death in Montgomery while out with friends. She was just a spectator when a bullet changed her life.

“All I remember is the ball went through the wall and I went straight to the ground. I couldn’t feel anything. I was instantly paralyzed. Instantly,” she said.

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

“How am I supposed to make my children believe that everything will be okay, that their mother is strong and that I can make it happen? She asked.

According to statistics from an advisory from the United States Surgeon General, shootings take a mental toll on survivors and their family members. The report shows that family members of gun violence survivors are at higher risk for mental health problems, including anxiety, mood disorders and more.

Allena Burbage is a therapist at Samaritan Counseling Centerspecializing in childhood and adolescence. She says even if the child is not physically injured, there is still trauma associated with gun violence.

“This is called vicarious trauma or secondary trauma, meaning we do not need to experience direct trauma to experience the anxiety and stress that comes with exposure to trauma,” Burbage said.

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

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

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

Victoria has been open with her children about her struggles and accomplishments. Years later, she is now looking to return to work, buy a wheelchair accessible car and show her children that it is possible to overcome violence.

“They have really been my pillar to show me how strong I can be,” she said.

If you would like to support Victoria’s journey, she has set up a GoFundMe.

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