Supporting Families Through Secondary Trauma: Key Strategies and Insights
I think we all carry trauma to some degree. I know oftentimes we look at people's behavior and we categorize it as personality disorder or symptoms of something, when in the reality of it is, they're really dealing with the pressures or how they've learned to cope with their own family of origin trauma.
When someone struggles with addiction or mental illness, their family often shares in the emotional turmoil. This episode of 'One Hour AT A Time', hosted by Mary Woods, dives deep into the concept of secondary trauma— the stress experienced by family members due to a loved one's struggles. Mary sheds light on how this overlooked issue can impact the entire family dynamic and the importance of addressing it for everyone's well-being.
Secondary trauma can manifest in various ways, from anxiety and fear to intrusive thoughts. Mary emphasizes the need for trauma-informed care, which includes specific interventions tailored to help families cope with these challenges. One such approach is the family empowerment model developed by Charles Figley. This model encourages families to take control of their recovery journey, focusing on their own needs and well-being. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is another effective method discussed in the episode.
CBT helps families identify and challenge negative thought patterns and behaviors that arise from secondary trauma. By understanding and managing these patterns, families can better support each other through the recovery process. The episode also highlights the fight-or-flight response, explaining how it not only affects those directly experiencing trauma but also those close to them. Mary underscores the importance of positive thinking as a tool to manage the impact of trauma and regain a sense of control.
Family therapy is presented as a crucial component of recovery, providing a safe space for families to communicate and process their experiences together. The systemic nature of recovery is stressed, illustrating how every family member plays a role in the healing process. By recognizing and addressing secondary trauma, families can create a supportive environment that fosters recovery for everyone involved. Tune in to this enlightening episode to gain valuable insights and practical advice on supporting families through secondary trauma.