Are we overusing and misrepresenting the term 'trauma'? In the latest episode of Church Psychology, we take a hard look at this pressing issue. We uncover how our society’s rampant misuse of 'trauma' often blurs its distinction from 'distress', diluting its profound meaning and leading to a fatigue that might potentially silence genuine cases of trauma. We want to change this narrative and offer a deeper understanding of trauma, not just as an event, but as an ongoing response to an experience.
Trauma is insidious; it doesn't just affect us psychologically but also leaves its imprints on our physiology. We break down the science of trauma and its effects, discussing how it disrupts our brain function, making it difficult to think rationally when our emotions are in turmoil. We also highlight how trauma can be carried across generations, often surfacing in ways that are not easily identifiable. How does our brain's amygdala play a role in this? And can we harness this connection to break free from distressing patterns? Join us as we weave through these intriguing questions in our discussion.
We believe in the power of connection, compassion, and contribution as potent tools to address trauma. We also discuss the work of Bill O'Hanlon in post-traumatic growth, throwing light on the concept of victimhood culture and its interplay with the term 'trauma'. In the backdrop of all this, we delve into scripture, drawing parallels from the lives of Joseph and other biblical figures, cementing our understanding of trauma from a psychological and biblical perspective. Together, let's redefine the way we understand and address trauma. Tune in for an enlightening conversation on Church Psychology.
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