Huntsman Mental Health: the Safe UT app isn’t just for kids

SALT LAKE CITY — If you’re feeling any anxiety after recent mass shootings, or the school threats in Utah, local mental health experts say there’s help available.

Rachel Lucynski a director with Huntsman Mental Health said trained mental health professionals can chat anytime on the Safe UT app.

“These feelings are normal and there are resources that exist that can help parents especially feel empowered and like they’re part of the solution. So, what we would really recommend is making sure that parents are aware of the Safe UT app,” said Lucynski.

As an example, parents can use the Safe UT app if they’re concerned about anything they heard from their child. The app could also be useful if a child or parent becomes worried about recent mass casualty events.

If parents are anxious, Huntsman Mental Health experts want them to know it’s normal to feel that way. And they remind parents to pay attention to whether those fears start to impact their daily lives.

“It’s really normal to feel scared. It really is. And we know that in Utah these things are happening,” said Lucynski.

Data shows that in 2022, the app received more than 800 tips. Twenty percent of those tips were about guns.

Finally, Lucynski wants parents to feel empowered.

“… they do have a way to help contribute to keeping schools safe. Contributing to violence prevention is something that can help people feel empowered and like there’s action that they can take.”

Editor’s note: This article has been updated to reflect the accurate spelling of Rachel Lucynski’s name.

Related:

• The Safe UT app catches a large amount of threats to Utah schools
• Experts urge gun safety as child gun deaths see higher rates
• All Utah students, educators and parents urged to download SafeUT app

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