For most people, it's not unusual to experience moments of sadness, fear, or panic that seem to come out of nowhere. But for some, these feelings can be deeply rooted in generations past – a phenomenon known as collective and generational trauma.

Understanding this powerful force is vital to explore how trauma has been passed down through families and communities over time and how it affects their mental health through generations.

What is collective and generational trauma?

Collective trauma is a term used to describe the emotional, psychological, and physical effects experienced by a group of people due to exposure to traumatic events or circumstances. This could be anything from war, genocide, natural disasters, mass shootings, or racism. It has been shown that collective trauma can have long-term consequences for entire generations of people who experience it.

Generational trauma is the transmission of trauma from one generation to the next. This can be passed down in various ways, such as through family stories, cultural practices and values, and even physical or genetic changes.

Generational trauma has been linked to higher rates of mental health issues, substance abuse, poverty, and other adverse effects that can last for many generations.

How collective trauma and generational trauma can overlap

Collective trauma and generational trauma can overlap in a few ways.

Firstly, it is possible that a collective trauma event that triggers the transmission of traumatic memories across multiple generations could be seen as a type of generational trauma.

Additionally, the effects of generational trauma can be compounded through collective traumas that continue to occur over time. For example, a family affected by slavery may also experience the burden of racial discrimination over many generations, resulting in an ongoing cycle of suffering.

Recognizing and understanding the signs of collective and generational trauma

The effects of collective and generational trauma can manifest in individuals in various ways, including physical, psychological, and emotional responses.

This can include PTSD, depression, anxiety, chronic pain, substance abuse, and other mental health issues.

People may also experience feelings of shame or guilt due to the knowledge that their suffering is related to a traumatic event far outside their control. Additionally, people affected by collective and generational trauma may avoid discussing their experiences with others or actively resist addressing the issue for fear of re-traumatization.

Why it's important to understand these types of trauma

Understanding collective and generational trauma can help individuals and communities cope with a shared history of suffering.

Understanding the roots of their trauma can enable people to confront painful memories and experiences more effectively, allowing them to take steps to heal and move forward. Knowing the dynamics of how trauma transmits through generations can also help those affected to better recognize similar patterns in their own behavior or that of others, giving them greater control over how they experience life.

Also, having an awareness of collective and generational trauma can empower individuals or groups to advocate for social justice initiatives that may address underlying issues causing systemic oppression or inequality.

How trauma-informed therapy promotes healing for those affected by collective and generational trauma

Trauma-informed therapy is a form of treatment that considers the effects of trauma on an individual's mental, physical, and emotional health. It recognizes the impact of traumatic experiences on individuals and works to address the underlying conditions that contribute to them.

Trauma-informed therapy helps those affected by collective or generational trauma by creating a space to process their reactions. It focuses on building strong, supportive relationships between patient and therapist and creating a sense of safety for the client. It also emphasizes compassion and understanding to generate trust between client and therapist, which furthers healing.

Trauma-informed therapy also seeks to provide concrete skills to help clients manage the symptoms associated with collective or generational trauma, such as grief, guilt, sadness, and anger.

By providing tools like breathing exercises, mindfulness meditation, and cognitive behavioral therapy techniques aimed at reframing negative thoughts, trauma-informed therapists empower clients to develop self-regulation skills necessary for managing these intense emotions and improving their overall quality of life.

Exploring the benefits and challenges of trauma-informed therapy

Trauma-informed therapy has many benefits, including creating a supportive and understanding environment, building trust between the client and therapist, providing practical tools for managing symptoms, and fostering self-regulation skills.

This type of therapy can also help to create a sense of safety that allows individuals to process their reactions in a safe space. Additionally, trauma-informed therapy can increase resilience, improve mental health, reduce trauma-related symptoms such as depression or anxiety, and ultimately help those affected by collective or generational trauma heal in meaningful ways.

Like all types of therapy, this one also has its challenges.

It requires a great deal of self-reflection and emotional work, which can be difficult for some individuals who may have difficulty opening up about their experiences or feelings. It also requires a high degree of trust in the therapist and an understanding of the trauma experienced by the individual.

Depending on the severity and type of trauma experienced, it can take time to see the results of this therapy. Finally, those affected by collective or generational trauma may have difficulty distinguishing between what happened to them personally and what has been passed down throughout their family line, making a recovery more complex.

At Paper Cranes Counseling, we understand the unique challenges of addressing collective and generational trauma. Our trauma-informed therapists are dedicated to providing a supportive, safe space to process emotions and develop practical tools for managing symptoms. So reach out today if you or someone you know is affected by collective or generational trauma. We're here to help! Contact us for a free consultation.

Shavonne James, LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Therapist and founder of Paper Cranes Counseling, a private group practice connecting wellness seekers with culturally-affirming, holistic, care. They have openings for individuals that are working through matters of identity, interpersonal relationships, and the inner child. Contact them at www.papercranescounseling.com