Tumbler Ridge needs mental health help beyond immediate shooting aftermath: psychologist

By: Nicole Ireland, The Canadian Press Posted: Last Modified:

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TORONTO - As the federal and provincial governments pledge support for the people of Tumbler Ridge, B.C., a psychologist specializing in trauma says mental health services will be needed beyond the immediate aftermath of Tuesday's mass shooting. 

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Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 11/02/2026 (220 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

TORONTO – As the federal and provincial governments pledge support for the people of Tumbler Ridge, B.C., a psychologist specializing in trauma says mental health services will be needed beyond the immediate aftermath of Tuesday’s mass shooting. 

McMaster University psychologist Dr. Margaret McKinnon says mental health supporters are often brought into communities after tragedies but then leave, leading to a sense of abandonment on top of trauma. 

McKinnon says students at the local school targeted in the shooting, parents, first responders and other members of the small community may need long-term psychological support. 

Police could be seen leaving and going to the Tumbler Ridge Secondary School throughout the morning in Tumbler Ridge, B.C. on Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jesse Boily
Police could be seen leaving and going to the Tumbler Ridge Secondary School throughout the morning in Tumbler Ridge, B.C. on Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jesse Boily

She says the most common reactions after mass shootings are fear, anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress symptoms.

Those can include nightmares or reliving the event, as well as an “overwhelming sense of guilt” about what they could or couldn’t have done during the shooting. 

McKinnon says post-traumatic stress can also manifest in physical ways, including an upset stomach or other gastrointestinal problems. 

She says the symptoms may resolve for many people over time, but at least a quarter of those affected will likely experience them for a year or more.   

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Feb. 11, 2026.

Canadian Press health coverage receives support through a partnership with the Canadian Medical Association. CP is solely responsible for this content.

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