Gun, and parental, control

Sensible gun control laws would be a good start with a ban on assault weapons. This is where government and NRA should instantly agree and push through.

A close second, on the home front would be more parental control, a more respectful child with less exposure to violence and guns from TV, movies and video games is less likely to bully or tease at school.

Parents have to take some responsibility for the child they send off everyday to be around others, and not just take for granted that their child is safe. Watch out for behavior changes and express concerns to teachers or guidance counselors, school psychologists, social workers or resource officers.

The entertainment industry contributes a lot to the stigma of mental health with use of words like crazy, looney or psycho and expressions like "off your meds." People with mental health issues should have the same access to health care as those with physical problems and the same support.

Sheila Schulthesz

Glen Ellyn