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 For centuries, theologians and philosophers have pondered the meaning of human suffering and responses to it. Today trauma-related researchers vigorously debate the post-critical incident trajectories toward recovery for individuals and organizations. Why do some of those impacted by tragedy become Victims-- indelibly marred and increasingly vulnerable to subsequent traumatization? Why do some quickly incorporate internal and natural resiliency factors to bounce back as Survivors? And, was Friedrich Nietzsche correct in recognizing post-trauma Thrivers with his famous quote, "That which doesn't kill me makes me stronger"?
This edition of PracticePoints focuses on the topic of Post-Traumatic Growth. Perhaps we raise far more questions than answers. Who grows? What does one measure as an indicator of growth? When should growth and resiliency strategies be implemented? How can organizations and individuals facilitate that growth? What we do know for sure is that tragedies will happen, and we hold a tremendous responsibility to support people and businesses as they move back to life and productivity. Let's keep answering those questions.
Best!
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Bob VandePol, President
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Post-Traumatic Growth: A New Perspective on Psychotraumatology |
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Post-Traumatic Growth is a new and emerging concept in the field of trauma response. At first glance, it seems to be the next natural progression as crisis response theory continues to move beyond a pathology orientation towards a strengths-based resiliency perspective. Certianly many spiritual and philosophical traditions speak of "rising from the ashes of adversity"and attest to the experience of many who have gained tremendous wisdom through challenging life circumstances. However, many questions remain unanswered: Is growth after a tragedy guaranteed? What factors contribute to PTG? Is it also normal and acceptable to simply endure, even if no profound insights were discovered? This article, first featured in The Psychiatric Times, provides an excellent synopsis of the main tenants of Post-Traumatic Growth. To view the document click article.
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Resources to Aid Post-Traumatic Growth |
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It is an incredible testimony to the strength of the human spirit that people often find meaning in the midst of tragedy. To be sure, this in no way minimizes the pain experienced or the lose endured, but the ability to assign personal meaning to a traumatic event is often described as a "turning point" by many. Holocaust survivor and psychiatrist Victor Frankl espoused the idea that finding meaning and value in life is a primary motivator for all humans, and that a strong sense of meaning is essential to surviving trauma and suffering. It is clear that each individual must discover their own meaning following a critical incident; however, EAPs, employers, and mental health professionals can play a pivotal role in supporting those on the journey of recovery.
The following resources produced by the American Psychological Association can be helpful tools. The first is from the APA's "Road to Resilience" series and features a set of questions to guide those seeking to learn from past events. To view this article click here. The second is an assessment in the form of an interactive questionnaire; this can provide a useful method to gauge Posttraumatic Growth. To take this survey click here. Links displayed by permission of the APA.
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CCN to Exhibit at Psychotherapy Networker Symposium
Crisis Care Network staff will be exhibiting at the 31st Annual Psychotherapy Networker Symposium in Washington, D.C. from March 13-16. To learn more about this exciting conference click Symposium. Hope to see you there!
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CCN Partners with EAPA for Webinar Series
As part of The EAPA Learning Center's Webinar Series, CCN President Bob Vande Pol will conduct the online training "Evolution in Critical Incident Response to the Workplace." This one-hour presentation will take place on February 21 at 11:00am EST. To register click training.
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CCN's Online Best Practices Training
CCN's online, on-demand program, "Best Practices in Critical Incident Response in the Workplace" provides attendees with a no-cost, video-enhanced overview of:
- The latest research and best practices in critical incident response.
- The client relationship as it relates to serving employers.
- What we have learned about resiliency and post traumatic stress disorder.
- Overview of Psychological First Aid (PFA) guidelines.
- How to conduct individual, small and large group briefings in the workplace.
This program summarizes the latest recommendations by leaders in the industry and integrates the Psychological First Aid principles published by the National Center for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and SAMHSA. CCN Specialists will be required to complete this training. The training is self-guided and may be accessed any time through this link: Online, On-Demand Best Practices Training Link
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Practice Points Archive
As part of CCN's on-going commitment to advancing the knowledge and resources available to all those interested in critical incident response best practices, we have established the Practice Points Archive. Past editions of Practice Points have dealt with such topics as the Evolution of Psychological First Aid, Resiliency, and Pandemic Preparedness and Response, among others. To view all past editions of Practice Points click here .
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