By Bob Cummings, Special to the Record-Eagle ---- — The recent
tragedy in Newtown, Conn., pulls at the heartstrings of all of
us. We long to know that everyone involved will soon find some
measure of comfort and peace. As we search for answers to why
the tragedy unfolded in the first place and to how to help
children who are suffering trauma recover, many have offered
helpful ideas. One idea struck me as not only of benefit in
dealing with trauma, but also useful for preventing the
illnesses that can accompany stress and emotional duress. In a
recent opinion piece in Heritage-Media West newspapers, Smita
Nagpal, a licensed psychologist and professional counselor,
advised, "Limit exposure to TV images and news coverage. The
graphic images and repetitive scenes can be disturbing for
children. Talk honestly about the incident, without graphic
detail"¦" "Research tells us there is a link between watching
news of traumatic events, such as terrorist attacks, and stress
symptoms," according to the U.S. Department of