The article discusses the emerging field of collective trauma research, contrasting it with individual trauma studies. It highlights the profound effects of recent U.S. events, such as political instability, violence, and natural disasters, on collective mental health. Sociologists like Kai Erikson and Seth Abrutyn provide frameworks to understand collective trauma as the destruction of social bonds, suggesting such traumas are often rooted in unresolved historical issues. The piece advocates for taking breaks from distressing news to mitigate stress and improve psychological well-being amid crises.
Many collective traumas originate from unresolved crises of the past, indicating that current events can trigger emotional scars hidden beneath the surface of society.
Sociologist Kai Erikson characterized collective trauma as a blow to the social fabric, leading to a realization that the community can no longer support its members.
Recent research reiterates that collective trauma is not merely a short-term event; its effects are widespread, impacting mental health on a public level due to stress and PTSD.
In an increasingly tumultuous political landscape, understanding the dynamic of collective trauma may help communities address unresolved emotional damage while fostering resilience.
Collection
[
|
...
]