Transforming Trauma: Empowering People with CBT
youtu.be
The content segments discuss the importance of empowering individuals who have experienced trauma and provide a mnemonic called UNPACKS to help guide the process. Trauma is defined as any event that makes a person feel unsafe and powerless, overwhelming their ability to cope. It is crucial to help individuals regain a sense of empowerment both immediately after a trauma and in the long term for those with PTSD or cPTSD.
The UNPACKS mnemonic consists of several steps. The first step is to understand that symptoms may be caused by trauma and to normalize the experience of trauma. It is important to recognize that reactions to trauma can vary greatly, even in children, and that behavior is a form of communication.
The next steps involve letting the pace be set by the person experiencing the trauma, becoming aware of triggers and developing coping mechanisms, identifying areas of control, practicing kindness towards oneself, and creating a sense of safety. Allowing individuals to determine when they are ready to process their trauma and helping them feel safe again is emphasized. Trauma survivors should be encouraged to be kind and compassionate to themselves, set boundaries, and define and develop their own sense of safety.
The content also highlights the importance of trauma survivors understanding the logic behind their symptoms and feeling in control of their treatment and progress. By addressing these factors, individuals can begin to unpack their emotional baggage and move towards healing and recovery.
Overall, the content emphasizes the need to empower individuals with trauma by understanding their symptoms, allowing them to set the pace for processing, identifying triggers and coping mechanisms, recognizing areas of control, practicing kindness towards oneself, and creating a sense of safety.
The content segments discuss the importance of empowering individuals who have experienced trauma an