Objectives: COVID-19: Addressing Social and Collective Trauma in Children, Adolescents and Their Families (03:03)

FREE PREVIEW

Dr. Varleisha D. Gibbs, introduces the topics that will be covered in this video.

Trauma Definitions (08:16)

Dr. Gibbs defines the following terms, connecting them to Covid-19 where applicable: complex trauma, collective trauma, social trauma, vicarious trauma, relational trauma.

Primitive Brain (02:43)

The limbic system sends out alerts when the body is in danger. The rational brain is involved in logic and control.

Neurochemistry (05:17)

The limbic system releases stress hormones throughout the body to launch the fight or flight response in reaction to physical or emotional distress. Extended exposure to these neurotransmitters may lead to hypersensitivity.

Trauma Research (08:29)

Early adverse childhood experiences can lead to injury, mental health issues, maternal health problems, infectious disease, chronic disease, risky behaviors, and affect education and job opportunities. Children with complex trauma that experience collective trauma may have significant impairment that requires treatment.

Universal Response to Stress (06:29)

Underlying physiological differences lead to whether or not there is a diagnosis of trauma. Risk factors include dosage of trauma, childhood adversity, history of poor coping, low social support, family history of trauma, and genetic differences.

Sequential Neurodevelopment and Therapeutic Activity (07:06)

Dr. Bruce Perry looks at the effects of trauma on development. Children can be impaired by earlier traumatic experiences in a way that affects their ability to function. Treatment options include strength based therapy and solution based therapy.

Addressing the Impact of Traumatic Events (07:05)

Joshua experienced multiple traumas throughout his childhood, including in utero. People are sensory beings affected by everything in the environment. Learn details of the less commonly known senses.

Decreasing Stress (06:23)

The autonomic nervous system, sympathetic nervous system, and parasympathetic nervous system are responsible for feelings, emotions, and thoughts. Be aware of triggers during mindfulness and sensory based intervention.

Addressing Interoceptive Needs: What Happens (07:46)

Telehealth can address developing routines and schedules, contextual interventions, and caregiver training. Trauma lurks in our brains.

Addressing Emotions (10:44)

Look for non-verbal communication to differentiate between frustration, anxiety, desire, and sadness. Joy, enthusiasm, and love can improve emotional well being. See a video clip about the emotional freedom technique.

Q&A: Social and Collective Trauma (16:32)

Dr. Gibbs addresses how to apply these strategies to incarcerated youth; what interventions have helped with survivors of domestic abuse; how to build a self-regulation and mindfulness box; and what strategies to use for kids with anxiety about Covid-19.