New Resource: Responding to Collective Trauma
Updated: Apr 9, 2022
In response to the current war in Ukraine, the
Trauma-informed Design Society
and
Cowart Trauma Informed Partnership
are pleased to announce a new resource for responding to collective trauma.
The pamphlet is intended to provide
information, resources, and assistance
to human services and other support workers
providing services to the Ukrainian people
or other populations experiencing similar collective traumas.
Currently available in three languages, English, Ukrainian, and Polish, the document and explains why historical context matters. The pamphlet defines what a collective trauma is, provides a short history of Ukraine and its relations with Russia, and explains how Russia's invasion is being experienced as a collective trauma. It then explains the possible impacts of toxic stress and trauma, including the possibility of changes to genetic markers and what it means for a person to become "triggered."
Grounded in the knowledge that we can interrupt the possible negative effects of trauma, the pamphlet then provides an overview of resilience and how we can help develop a sense of safety that will lower the stress levels of survivors. Tips for building supportive, healing relationships are included, as well as how to help someone better regulate their emotions. The incorporation of movement and play are also recommended. The document explains the often overlooked impact the physical environment on a person's stress levels, emotions, and behaviors, and provides some simple suggestions on how to mitigate potential triggers, maximize comfort, and create a stress-relieving and safe space for all involved.
Links to resources are included throughout the document to provide more information and help build a deeper understanding of the concepts covered.
