In a poignant reflection on the 25th anniversary of the tragic mass shooting at Columbine High School, survivors have opened up about their enduring struggle with the physical and mental impact of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. Recalling the fateful day of April 20, 1999, the survivors have shared their harrowing experiences and how they have overcome the aftermath through resilience and support.

The shooting at Columbine High School was a watershed moment in American history. Prior to that day, the nation had not fully comprehended the horror of a school shooting. Heather Martin, a survivor, expressed how the event shaped her identity, stating, "It's a big part of who I am, not necessarily that day, but more who I've become, and a large part of that is because of the aftermath."

The effects of the shooting have only grown more apparent over the years. According to the Gun Violence Archive, a total of 415 people have lost their lives in school shootings since the Columbine attacks, with 907 wounded as of April 2, 2024. In the aftermath of the tragedy, authorities recognized the need for psychological support, providing therapy and counseling to survivors suffering from PTSD.

The survivors have also found solace in the form of The Rebels Project, a network of individuals who offer support and understanding. This group, formed by the Columbine survivors, has connected with survivors from other mass shootings, such as the Aurora movie theater shooting in 2012 and the Washington Navy Yard shooting in 2013. The power of this network lies in the shared experiences that help alleviate the trauma suffered by these individuals.

One survivor, Melissa Mendo, spoke about the importance of connecting with those who have gone through similar experiences. She expressed gratitude for the large survivor network provided by The Rebels Project, specifically mentioning other mothers who understood the challenges of discussing the tragedy with their children.

While the former students have united and used their collective strength to move forward, the teachers who experienced the shooting are handling their trauma in different ways as they approach retirement. Frank DeAngelis, the retired principal of Columbine High School, has chosen to use the valuable lessons learned from the tragedy to teach others. He travels the world as a safety and emergency management adviser for the school district, spreading awareness and sharing his 25 years of experience.

DeAngelis, who recites the names of the students lost in the shooting every morning, believes that their memory gives him inspiration and fuels his commitment to ensuring that their lives were not lost in vain. His own journey with anxiety attacks led him to seek solace in comforting former students who faced similar challenges, reducing the frequency of his own episodes.

As the survivors reflect on the 25 years since the tragic event, they acknowledge the impact it has had on their lives. However, alongside the pain, they also find hope and strength in the bonds they have forged with one another. The survivors emphasize the resilience and determination of their fellow survivors, praising their ability to endure adversity and fight through difficult situations.

Twenty-five years after the Columbine shooting, the survivors' stories serve as a testament to the power of unity, support, and personal growth. Despite the lingering trauma, they have found strength in the face of adversity, reminding the world that healing and resilience can emerge even from the darkest of tragedies.