This is the fifth and final (for now!) post in our series about trauma-informed self care. Listen to the audio version of this episode here or find The Greater Us wherever you listen to your podcasts!
In this final post in our series on trauma-informed self-care, we're going to focus on the importance of context and community—both in relation to trauma and as vital strategies for staying engaged in this critical work.
The Concept of Resilience
Before diving deeper, I want to address a question I received about my choice to avoid the term "resilience" in our discussions. While I understand that many people use the word to convey the idea of withstanding stress, I find it problematic.
Resilience is an engineering term that refers to how much stress a material can endure before it breaks. But unlike materials, people exist in complex contexts that often contribute to their stress.
Instead of emphasizing resilience, I advocate for a focus on prevention and mitigation—recognizing the root causes of stress and addressing them. This shift in perspective can help us better understand how trauma manifests and how we can support one another.
Trauma as Alienation and Disconnection
Traumatic experiences, often involve feelings of alienation and disconnection. Whether personal or collective, trauma frequently creates ruptures that leave us feeling isolated and misunderstood. This disconnection can stem from violated trust, either from individuals who have caused harm or from the community that has failed to respond appropriately.
In my own experiences, I have found healing through reconnecting with others who understand these difficult experiences. Hearing someone say, “I know what that was like” can be very comforting. Connecting with those who share similar identities or struggles can help us feel less alone, and fostering strong relationships across differences enriches our understanding of one another.
The Power of Community
I view community and context through several lenses. At its most fundamental level, community helps combat loneliness and alienation. It provides a space where people can connect, resonate, and share experiences without fear of having their struggles dismissed. For instance, I've encouraged my students to be mindful of how engaging in devil's advocate discussions can sometimes undermine their understanding of interpersonal violence and trauma.
Creating affinity spaces—environments where people don’t have to justify their experiences—has been invaluable to me. These spaces allow for genuine connection and support, fostering resilience not as a solitary trait, but as a collective strength.
Organizational Strategies for Support
Communities also exist within organizations. When groups engage in challenging work, there are many strategies they can implement to mitigate burnout. One effective approach is to cultivate an inclusive, bonded community.
During my time as a crisis worker in the emergency department, I learned the importance of socializing with my colleagues outside of work-related tasks. We would gather and connect as friends, creating a network of support that proved invaluable after tough shifts. This camaraderie allowed us to debrief without fear of judgment, sharing the weight of our experiences with understanding peers.
In my consulting work with The Greater Us, I prioritize culture-building within organizations. By fostering an environment of trust and positive regard, we create spaces where individuals can share their challenges openly. Additionally, I’ve learned that balancing this work with friendships outside the field can help mitigate burnout and restore energy.
Building Compassionate Work Environments
Organizations can also take collective steps to reduce the risk of burnout. Leaders play a crucial role in this process. By developing communication and relationship-building skills, they can cultivate a compassionate and stable work environment.
When organizations face transitions, transparency is key. Involving team members in discussions about changes can foster a sense of inclusion and collective understanding. By prioritizing emotional intelligence, cultural humility, and relational skills, leaders can help create a healthier organizational culture that supports everyone’s well-being.
The Greater Us
Returning to the name of our consultancy, The Greater Us, I truly believe that by committing to individual and collective care, we can show up as our best selves and offer our greatest gifts to the world. As Archbishop Desmond Tutu wisely stated, “Do your little bit of good where you are. It’s those little bits of good put together that overwhelm the world.”
I hope this exploration of community and context in trauma-informed self-care has resonated with you. I encourage you to reflect on how you can engage with your communities and organizations to create a supportive environment. Your contributions, no matter how small, can make a significant impact.
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