A shooting May 18 at the Islamic Center of San Diego is raising questions about whether expanded access to mental health services could help identify and support troubled young people before they turn to violence.

Two teenage boys killed three men at the mosque before turning the guns on themselves. They left suicide notes — manifestos purportedly full of hatred and despair.

Rehana Peiris, psychologist and vice president of clinical services for Parents Anonymous, which runs the California Parent and Youth Helpline, said teens in crisis need to know that immediate help is available. Parents Anonymous runs the California Parent and Youth Helpline.

“We're able to work with families right on the spot, whether it's the parent, whether it's the youth, as they're experiencing these emotions and needing the support,” Peiris explained. “Because these days, accessing therapy, it takes a long time.”

Counselors are also available to console victims and their families after a tragedy. People can call or text the helpline at 855-427-2736 or use live chat on the organization’s website.

Legislators in Sacramento are considering whether to fund the helpline for next year after Gov. Gavin Newsom left the service out of his most recent budget proposal.

Police are investigating the possibility that the gunmen in San Diego were radicalized by hate groups online.

Peiris stressed it is important for parents to teach their children it is OK to seek help, especially for feelings of isolation, depression, alienation, rage or self-harm.

“We believe asking for help is a sign of strength, and having that dynamic where your child knows that they can ask for help and most importantly, they can ask you as a parent for help is powerful,” she emphasized.

Peiris recommended parents try to reduce their teens’ sense of isolation by limiting screen time, using programs to monitor their activity online, spending more time together and getting to know their friends.

Source: Public News Service