Racial trauma is a stress-based response to racial discrimination and can lead to symptoms, or diagnosis, of post-traumatic stress disorder.
Trauma is not what happened to you, it is what happens inside you as a result of an event, and everyone reacts SO differently.
The level of immediate support available can influence the impact on someone.
You don’t have to have direct experience of the event to experience these symptoms (vicarious trauma).
It can be a result of our elder generations having experienced, or witnessed, racial violence or discrimination and this gets passed down through generations (intergenerational trauma).
What can a trauma response look like?
Hypervigilance – feeling anxious, on edge and very unsafe whilst looking out for threats
Feeling a range of intense emotions from anger, sadness to depression
Avoidance - not wanting to talk about the experience, situation or avoiding people or places
Flashbacks or nightmares – reexperiencing previous traumatic events, or feeling like you are back there, and having a physiological reaction
Impact on cognitions – unable to concentrate or focus
Lack of confidence or low self-esteem – feeling self-conscious, paranoia or no sense of belonging, or even shame or self-blame
And a range of other possible symptoms
Security and a sense of belonging are basic human needs, and many will be struggling with both at the moment due to the racist riots and overt discrimination.
The psychological impact of recent events may not surface until later on, as is the case with trauma, but whatever you may be feeling right now IS valid.
How organisations can offer support
Encouraging flexible working and home working
Highlight all of the support available, especially emotional – EAP, ERGs, medical insurance, check ins with managers AND leaders
Ask employees what is helpful right now
Encourage open conversations – sweeping things under the carpet perpetuates the impact of discrimination
Revisit your DEI training content, not just as a tick box, really invest in the required changes
Anticipate the long-term impact – on dynamics, relationships, individuals, safety and how you offer ongoing support
Psychological Safety – does this exist/what more can be done
The feelings of helplessness can be so deep, when we feel we have no power this can activate negative thought patterns and lead to low mood, anxiety, or anger.
The best remedy kindness - smile at strangers, post messages of support and listen with empathy to those who are struggling.
Things are not going to change overnight, this is a very long road and a battle that spans centuries, but one small act of kindness can go a long way.
I am always open and happy to offer advice or guidance by connecting on Linkedin or my website with individuals and organisations
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About Anita Guru & Speakers Collective
Anita Guru is a Coach, Freelance Consultant, therapist in training and a public speaker on mental healthIf you are interested in Anita Guru speaking at an event or providing training please contact info@speakerscollective.org or call us on 020 8123 8250.
Speakers Collective is a Social Enterprise. We work together with a shared commitment to challenge stigma, facilitate important conversations and promote learning on a variety of social issues.
Please do get in contact to find out more about our work info@speakerscollective.org and you can find out about becoming a member https://www.speakerscollective.org/become-a-member.
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