You know that you have invested your time wisely when you participate in a learning experience and there is an idea that you keep thinking about. Recently I completed a session on best practices in the assessment of trauma. There is one fact that has stuck with me, kicking off an ongoing internal conversation – Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) did not become a recognized diagnosis in the Diagnostical and Statical Manual (DSM), used by mental health professionals for diagnosis, until 1980. Suddenly, I had greater clarity about my own professional journey. I started my doctorate program in 1993, just 13 years after PTSD made its appearance in the DSM. Besides learning the diagnostic criteria, there was little formal training on trauma. Most of my education and understanding about trauma occurred well after I received my PsyD both through ongoing education and experience. My best teachers by far have been the individuals who I have had the privilege to work with in my private practice and meet as a trainer and facilitator.
When we name and define something, it gives us the ability to communicate in a new way – we have shared understanding. The addition of PTSD as a diagnosis was an important milestone in the development of understanding and treatment of trauma. This field and our knowledge have exponentially expanded over the past four decades with the Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) study, Trauma Informed Care, Post Traumatic Growth, Polyvagal Theory, and Somatic Practices – just to name a few. With this, our understanding has transformed and we have moved beyond seeing traumatic stress as simply a disorder but an expected response in the face of overwhelming event(s) in which recovery and healing is possible.
We are excited to share new resources that support our collective and evolving learning including:
As we recognize Mental Health Awareness month, may the people and practices that support your wellbeing be plentiful.
In gratitude,
Elizabeth
Our experiences live within us, shaping how we think, feel, and respond to the world. By gently peeling back the layers, we can begin to understand what’s beneath the surface.
Brought to you by the New York State Trauma-Informed Network & Resource Center, this educational series will help you build a deeper understanding of trauma, how it occurs, how it affects our bodies and minds, and how healing is possible through a trauma-informed lens.
Our first video, “What is Trauma?” explores the 3 E’s of trauma and its effect.
This guide is designed to accompany the TINRC educational video series and support you in putting trauma‑informed ideas into practice.
Each section will guide you through three questions and offer an opportunity for personal reflection.
by Terry Hastings, Chief Wellness Officer for NYS DHSES
The NYS Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services (DHSES) and NYS Office of Mental Health (OMH) have recently released a new online training for mental health professionals who currently work with or are considering working with first responders such as 911 dispatchers, law enforcement, emergency medical technicians and firefighters.
NYS TINRC Advisory Council member Dee Levy was recently featured on the NYS Justice Center for the Protection of People with Special Needs podcast, Could This Happen In Your Program?.
In this episode, Dee explores why a trauma-informed approach is critical for anyone who works with people in vulernable situations.
By Naishah Brown-Ebanks
This article will talk openly about suicide and related themes.
If someone told you that enduring repeated trauma, growing up without a stable support system, or constantly feeling like the “other” increases the likelihood of suicidal thoughts, you’d probably respond with, “Well, of course.” It feels obvious. But when you sit with the numbers—and when you live the reality behind them—that obvious truth becomes devastatingly personal.
Expanded practice sessions -with more dates & times! Now offering BBM sessions 5 days a week!
Stress relief that’s quick, simple, free, and available to all! Join our BBM practice sessions to learn gentle, science-based exercises that help reduce stress and build resilience.
This program helps build a team of trainers across NY who can teach “Tending the Roots Training” courses.
Dates: July 9th, 10th, & 17th
Time: 8:30am-4pm (9th & 10th) & 9:00am-4:30pm (17th)
Location: Watertown (9th & 10th) & Virtual (17th)
Register your organization for this strengths-based organizational self-assessment tool that provides organizations with a point-in-time “snapshot” of where they are in their journey towards becoming a trauma-responsive and equity-centered organization.
The NYS TINRC Newsletter is produced by CCSI. The views, opinions, and content expressed in this article do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, or policies of the New York State Office of Mental Health (NYS OMH).
