Whether it’s subtle or significant, the ripple effects of trauma have a tremendous impact on our lives. Doctors, therapists, psychologists, and educators of all sorts are coming together to bring public attention to the ways trauma impacts our brain development, overall health, and – most importantly – our ability to form safe, meaningful relationships with one another.
I feel a renewed surge of hope and gratitude to see this vital conversation emerging with greater enthusiasm and frequency. In April, Oprah Winfrey and Dr. Bruce Perry released a new book called, What Happened to You? that focuses on how past trauma impacts how we interact with the world. Last month, The Wisdom of Trauma debuted, featuring Dr. Gabor Maté’s theories on the connection between illness, addiction, trauma, and society. If you haven’t had a chance to read the book or watch the film I highly recommend each of them.
It’s an exciting time to witness the collective awareness we’re gaining as we come to understand that the experiences of unresolved trauma lie at the foundation of so many of our confusing and self-sabotaging behaviors. Becoming a more trauma-informed society begins with learning to cultivate safe, supportive relationships with one another. This is often easier said than done, but if we can have the courage to seek support for the ripple effects of trauma in our own lives, we can develop the skills necessary to truly restore our connection to one another.