What it means to be a transgender in Florida right now

Being transgender in Florida can be a challenging experience, as the state has a complicated history with transgender rights. While there have been some positive developments in recent years, there is still a long way to go in terms of equality and protection for transgender individuals. In this article, we will explore the current state of transgender rights in Florida and what it means to be transgender in the state right now.

The Current State of Transgender Rights in Florida

Florida’s Anti-Discrimination Laws

Florida does not have any statewide laws that explicitly protect transgender individuals from discrimination. This means that in many areas of life, such as employment, housing, and public accommodations, transgender individuals can face discrimination without any legal recourse.

However, some cities and counties in Florida have passed their own anti-discrimination ordinances that include protections for transgender individuals. These include cities like Miami, Tampa, and Orlando, as well as counties like Broward and Palm Beach. While these local laws provide some protection, they are not comprehensive and do not cover the entire state.

Healthcare for Transgender Individuals

In 2019, Florida passed a law that prohibits healthcare providers from providing gender-affirming care to transgender minors. This means that healthcare providers can face disciplinary action if they provide hormone therapy, puberty blockers, or gender confirmation surgery to anyone under the age of 18.

This law has been met with significant backlash from the LGBTQ+ community and medical professionals, who argue that it puts transgender youth at risk and goes against established medical guidelines. As a result, there have been ongoing legal challenges to this law, and it is currently on hold while the courts decide its constitutionality.

Transgender Students in Schools

Florida does not have any statewide laws or policies that protect transgender students in schools. This means that transgender students can face discrimination and harassment from their peers and school staff without any legal protection.

In 2018, the Florida Department of Education released guidelines for schools on how to support transgender students, including allowing them to use the bathroom and participate in sports teams that align with their gender identity. However, these guidelines are not legally binding, and many schools in the state do not follow them.

Challenges Faced by Transgender Individuals in Florida

Discrimination and Harassment

As mentioned earlier, transgender individuals in Florida do not have comprehensive legal protection from discrimination. This means that they can face discrimination and harassment in many areas of life, including employment, housing, and public accommodations.

According to a 2015 survey by the National Center for Transgender Equality, 30% of transgender individuals in Florida reported experiencing discrimination in the workplace, and 22% reported being denied a home or apartment because of their gender identity.

Lack of Access to Healthcare

The 2019 law that prohibits healthcare providers from providing gender-affirming care to transgender minors has had a significant impact on the transgender community in Florida. Many transgender individuals, especially youth, rely on hormone therapy and other gender-affirming treatments to live authentically and alleviate gender dysphoria. Without access to these treatments, they may experience significant mental and emotional distress.

Bullying and Violence

Transgender individuals in Florida also face a high risk of bullying and violence. According to the same survey by the National Center for Transgender Equality, 39% of transgender individuals in Florida reported being verbally harassed, and 12% reported being physically attacked because of their gender identity.

This violence is not limited to the general public; transgender individuals are also at risk of violence from law enforcement. In 2018, Florida had the second-highest number of reported murders of transgender individuals in the United States.

Recent Developments in Transgender Rights in Florida

The Equality Act

In 2021, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Equality Act, a federal bill that would provide comprehensive protections for LGBTQ+ individuals, including transgender individuals, in areas such as employment, housing, and public accommodations. While this bill has not yet been passed by the Senate, it would have a significant impact on the rights of transgender individuals in Florida if it were to become law.

Local Anti-Discrimination Ordinances

As mentioned earlier, some cities and counties in Florida have passed their own anti-discrimination ordinances that include protections for transgender individuals. These local laws have been crucial in providing some protection for the transgender community in Florida, and there have been ongoing efforts to expand these protections to other areas of the state.

Legal Challenges to Discriminatory Laws

There have also been ongoing legal challenges to discriminatory laws in Florida, such as the 2019 law that prohibits healthcare providers from providing gender-affirming care to transgender minors. These legal challenges are essential in fighting for the rights of transgender individuals and pushing for more inclusive policies and laws in the state.

What Can Be Done to Support Transgender Rights in Florida?

Support Local Organizations

There are many organizations in Florida that are working to support and advocate for transgender individuals. By supporting these organizations through donations or volunteering, you can help make a difference in the lives of transgender individuals in the state.

Educate Yourself and Others

One of the most important things you can do to support transgender rights in Florida is to educate yourself and others about the challenges faced by the transgender community. By understanding the issues and sharing this knowledge with others, you can help raise awareness and promote change.

Advocate for Inclusive Policies and Laws

You can also advocate for inclusive policies and laws in your community and at the state level. This can include contacting your local representatives, attending town hall meetings, and participating in rallies and protests.

Conclusion

Being transgender in Florida can be a difficult experience, as the state still has a long way to go in terms of equality and protection for transgender individuals. However, there have been some positive developments in recent years, and there are ongoing efforts to push for more inclusive policies and laws. By supporting local organizations, educating yourself and others, and advocating for change, you can help make a difference in the lives of transgender individuals in Florida.

Healing from Trauma: The Benefits of Trauma-Focused Therapy

Today, I’ll be discussing on Trauma-focused therapy. But first I have a quick question for you. Have you experienced trauma?

Whether it was from a car accident, natural disaster, or other traumatic events, it can profoundly impact your mental well-being.

But healing is possible, and trauma-focused therapy is one of the most effective ways.

In this blog post, we’ll talk about trauma and how it can affect you. I’ll also share some light on the different types of trauma-focused therapy, and what to expect in therapy sessions.

And of course, also walk you through the benefits of trauma-focused therapy . The goal? I’m here to help you heal from your traumatic experience.

Sound good? Let’s get the ball rolling.

What is Trauma and How Can it Impact You?

Trauma is a deeply distressing experience. Yes, it has a long-lasting effects on your mental and emotional well-being.

It can result from various events, such as abuse, accidents, natural disasters, or violent crime. Trauma can cause intense feelings of helplessness and fear.

Traumatic experiences can affect you differently, and you may experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Sometimes it could be other mental health conditions.

Symptoms of PTSD can include flashbacks, nightmares, intrusive thoughts, and avoidance of triggers related to the traumatic event.

Types of Trauma-Focused Therapy

There are several types of trauma-focused therapy, each with its unique approach and techniques. Below are some common types of trauma-focused therapies:

1. Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)

CPT is a therapy that focuses on helping individuals challenge and change negative beliefs. This could be thoughts related to their traumatic experiences.

The therapy aims to help individuals develop a more balanced and realistic view of the traumatic event and their lives.

2. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

EMDR therapy uses eye movements or bilateral stimulation to help individuals process and work through their traumatic memories.

This therapy aims to reduce the intensity of traumatic memories and decrease the associated emotional and physical distress.

3. Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE)

This involves gradually exposing individuals to situations or triggers related to their traumatic event.

The goal is to help individuals develop a sense of control over their trauma-related fears and anxiety.

4. Narrative Exposure Therapy (NET)

NET is a type of therapy that involves helping individuals create a coherent narrative of their traumatic experiences.

This helps to integrate their traumatic memories into their life stories and develop a sense of control over their experiences.

What to Expect in Trauma-Focused Therapy Sessions

Trauma-focused therapy sessions typically involve a licensed mental health professional. He has got to have specialized training in trauma-focused therapies.

The therapist will work with you to create a safe and supportive environment. Then he has to develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

During therapy sessions, you may be asked to discuss your traumatic experiences. You could also be asked to share their thoughts and feelings, and engage in specific therapeutic techniques.

What Are the Benefits of Trauma-Focused Therapy?

Like I’ve mentioned earlier, trauma-focused therapy is psychotherapy designed to help you heal from your traumatic experience.

Here are four benefits of trauma-focused therapy:

Develop Coping Skills

Trauma-focused therapy can help you develop coping skills to manage the symptoms of PTSD and other mental health conditions related to trauma.

Your therapist can teach you strategies to reduce anxiety and depression, such as relaxation or mindfulness exercises. You can also learn healthy ways to express your emotions and manage your thoughts.

Gain a Better Understanding of Your Trauma

Trauma-focused therapy can help you better understand your traumatic experience and its impact on your life.

Through therapy, you can explore your thoughts and feelings about the trauma, gain insight into how it has affected your relationships and behaviors, and develop a sense of control over your life.

Overcome Avoidance and Fear

Trauma can make you want to avoid anything related to the traumatic event. However, this avoidance can prevent you from processing your trauma and moving forward with your life.

Trauma-focused therapy can help you confront your fears and work through your trauma-related thoughts and emotions in a safe and supportive environment.

Improve Your Well-being and Life

Trauma-focused therapy can help you feel more in control of your life and improve your overall quality of life. You can develop healthier thought patterns, learn to manage your symptoms, and rebuild your relationships with others.

You may also experience reduced trauma-related physical symptoms, such as headaches or stomach aches.

Conclusion

Trauma-focused therapy can be an effective treatment for individuals who have experienced trauma.

It can help you better understand your trauma, develop coping skills, overcome avoidance and fear, and improve your overall quality of life.

If you’re struggling with trauma, don’t hesitate to seek the help of a qualified trauma-focused therapist to start your healing journey.

Remember, healing is a journey, and it takes time and effort. But with the help of a qualified trauma-focused therapist, you can find the support and guidance you need to start your healing journey.

So, if you’re struggling with the effects of trauma, don’t hesitate to seek the help of a licensed psychologist today.

Living with Dissociative Identity Disorder: How Therapy Can Help

A person with dissociative identity disorder (DID), formerly known as multiple personality disorder, develops two or more separate personas or identities.

These identities are often referred to as alters or dissociative identities.

Each personality has a unique manner of feeling, acting, thinking, and remembering the past. This usually results from severe and protracted trauma, typically in infancy.

Abuse on any level—physical, emotional, or sexual—neglect, or other kinds of trauma, are all examples of trauma.

The brain employs dissociation as a coping strategy to shield itself from unpleasant or overwhelming situations.

Dissociation, forgetfulness, flashbacks, mood swings, anxiety, sadness, and suicidal thoughts are just a few of the symptoms that may make daily life with DID difficult.

Psychotherapy, such as talk therapy or cognitive-behavioral therapy, is typically used as part of treatment.

This teaches the patient how to control their symptoms and integrate their identities into a cohesive sense of self.

What Is Dissociative Identity Disorder?

Dissociative identity disorder, one kind of dissociative disorder, most frequently manifests in young children of traumatized individuals.

I refer to the fact that this often entails neglect, abuse—emotional, physical, or sexual abuse—as well as unexpected relationships with caregivers.

Some children in such situations may develop DID by categorizing their continuous, painful experiences and then projecting them onto other elements of their selves.

They may psychologically separate themselves from pain by doing this.
After learning what DID means, let’s move on to how you can receive support from a therapist.

How Therapy Can Help You Find Stability

For people with Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID), therapy can be a crucial tool for establishing stability in their life.

These are some examples of how counseling might be beneficial:

1. Understanding and acceptance

A therapist can assist a person with DID in accepting their multiple identities and understanding the disease.

As a result, they may feel less perplexed and distressed and have greater control over their experiences.

2. Coping skills

A therapist can assist a person with DID in accepting their multiple identities and understanding the disease.

They may feel less perplexed and distressed and have greater control over their experiences.

3. Integration of identities

Those with DID can work with a therapist to merge their identities into a coherent sense of self.

This means progressively integrating alters together and fostering collaboration and communication among them.

4. Addressing trauma

A therapist can assist people with DID in processing and recovering from earlier traumatic events that may have contributed to the disorder’s emergence.

Trauma-focused therapies like EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) or somatic experiencing may be necessary to achieve this.

5. Building a support system

Therapy can assist people with DID in creating a network of dependable friends, family, or support groups.

This may be crucial in offering emotional support and minimizing feelings of loneliness.

In general, treatment may be a valuable tool for helping people with DID establish stability and improve their quality of life.

Therefore, working with a therapist with knowledge and expertise in treating dissociative disorders is crucial.

Strategies on How You Can Get Self-Help

Did you know that before seeing a therapist, you can try self-help?

Below I’ve provided five ways you can go about this.

Balanced nutrition

Although there isn’t a specific diet for DID, eating a lot of whole, unprocessed foods is an excellent approach to ensure that your body and mind receive the nutrition and energy they require.

Get daily movement

Exercise might improve your mood and aid in releasing any stress due to an endorphin surge. It also doesn’t have to be time-consuming.

Start with just enough to raise your heart rate, such as a quick stroll around your neighborhood if you’re attempting to develop a habit. I advise spending 30 minutes a day, five days a week.

Get enough sleep

Do your best to have a regular sleep schedule and engage in good sleep habits before bed.

To give your brain a chance to relax and your body’s tissues a chance to recuperate, get 8 hours of sleep every night. In other words, it will support maintaining your peak performance.

Develop a meditation practice

It discovered that specific symptoms for young individuals involved in a mindfulness program over six weeks improved, even if additional study is required on supplementary therapies for dissociative disorders.

Roll out your yoga mat

Yoga has long been researched for its mood-boosting benefits.

According to research, among other mental health advantages, daily yoga practice can aid trauma survivors in improving their emotional regulation.

Yoga might be overwhelming for some individuals with a history of trauma, so it may be crucial for you to find a trauma-informed practice.

Can I Recover from a Dissociative Disorder?

Yes!

There is a very good chance that you will fully recover if the proper diagnosis and care are provided.

You may no longer have dissociative symptoms as a result of this. Your identity’s component pieces may combine to form a single sense of self, for instance.

Not everyone will recover from their dissociative symptoms. Nonetheless, receiving therapy might give you a sense of increased identity and life control.

Some people may not be ready to cease dissociating entirely because they feel comfortable in their ability to do so.

Conclusion

Although coping with Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) can be difficult, treatment can be a helpful tool in assisting those with DID to regain stability in their life.

By recognizing and embracing their disease, developing coping skills, integrating identities, addressing prior trauma, and creating a support system, persons with DID can enhance their quality of life and minimize symptoms.

Working with a trained therapist with expertise in dissociative disorders is crucial, as is being patient and dedicated to the therapy process because change might not be seen immediately.

Nevertheless, people with DID can have productive lives and attain more vital inner peace and stability with the correct help.

Click here to book a section with a licensed psychologist in Florida today if you or someone you know is challenged with this condition.

The Aftermath of Hurricane on Mental and Physical Health

Psychological science offers evidence-based strategies for coping with unexpected, uncontrolled disasters amid a staggering death toll and devastation in Florida.

It’s crucial to be aware that individuals frequently feel very intense emotional reactions when a storm makes landfall and causes devastation to houses and entire towns.

Frank C. Worrell, PhD, president of APA, said: “We comprehend the concern individuals across the state of Florida are facing right now. Please observe all safety precautions and adhere to your local and state emergency response officials’ directives.

You are not the only one who may be upset. However, you can better regulate your feelings, thoughts, and behaviors if you are aware of the common reactions to extreme events.

Following a hurricane or other traumatic incident, you have several options, including the following:

Realize that this is a difficult period. Keep yourself protected and go slowly. Ensure you’re looking after yourself and your family in a secure environment. Do not take any actions that might jeopardize your safety or the safety of those you care about.
You could feel uneasy responses like shortness of breath, trouble focusing, forgetfulness, or distractibility. Under the conditions, such is typical. A normal response to an abnormal circumstance is an abnormal response.
Permit yourself to lament the losses you have endured. Recognize that you might feel a range of different emotions.
Your location in relation to the storm will determine where you can access information. Keep up with the latest recent alerts and information if you can access the news.
Seek the assistance of those who will listen to you, care about you, and have compassion for your predicament. But remember that your regular support system may be compromised if individuals close to you have also seen or seen the hurricane.
Relaxation techniques may help you get some rest if you have trouble falling asleep. Avoid using alcohol and drugs as they might make you feel more depressed and prevent you from taking the necessary action to be resilient and cope with life’s challenges.

Tips To Protect Your Physical And Emotional Health After Hurricane Storm

Physical Risks Abound; the recovery process following a hurricane can be physically demanding. Additionally, it may be pretty harmful. The following advice can help you, and your family stays safe as you reintegrate into daily life:

1. Don’t Use Wet Electrical Devices

Electrical shock is a threat that exists everywhere. Turn off the electricity to the house and unplug any wet devices that are still connected.

2. Use Flashlights Instead of Candles

Don’t use any open fires since your home may contain dangerous vapours. Your best bet is almost always a flashlight.

3. Take Extra Care Around Damaged Properties

Hurricanes may inflict significant structural damage that isn’t often visible due to their tremendous winds. Till a specialist certifies that damaged houses and structures are safe, stay away from them.

4. Be Aware of Carbon Monoxide

Carbon monoxide can be produced using tools and machinery that burn gas or coal. Therefore, refrain from using any of these items indoors. Also, never put a portable backup generator indoors or in a garage if you’re using one. It must be outside and at least 15 feet away from your house.

5. Avoid the floodwaters

Floodwaters can be unexpected and bring pathogens that could cause illness. Avoid whenever you can, and if you are exposed, follow the advised steps.

6. Keep Away from Power Lines

Report downed power lines and avoid the area around them since water and electricity wires can be fatally combined.

How Psychologists Can Help

People who endure sustained emotional distress during a hurricane that interferes with their everyday activities may speak with a qualified and experienced mental health practitioner.

Psychologists and other qualified mental health professionals can help people learn about typical reactions to high stress and develop a strategy for the future.

To assist people in managing their emotions in the wake of traumatic experiences, psychologists can offer therapies supported by research. Psychologists most frequently employ treatment (sometimes referred to as psychotherapy or talk therapy).

There are many different therapeutic approaches, but the psychologist will pick the one that best addresses the patient’s issue and complements their personality and preferences.

Cognitive, behavioral, interpersonal, humanistic, psychodynamic, or a mix of many treatment methods is some popular forms of therapy. Individuals, couples, families, or other groups might get therapy.

Hypnosis, which has been shown in studies to help treat a variety of diseases such as pain, anxiety, and mood disorders, is a skill that some psychologists have undergone training in.

Therapy and medicine are sometimes the best courses of treatment for some illnesses. Psychologists collaborate on patients’ overall care with general practitioners, paediatricians, and psychiatrists for those who benefit from medication.

Conclusion

The aftermath of a hurricane did not only lowers the quality of life but also throws a significant burden on one’s physical and mental health and that of the community.

To lessen the negative impacts of the disaster on people’s emotional and physical health, effective treatments should be delivered before, during, and after the disaster.

Due to incorporating several efficient strategies, therapeutic interventions using psychosocial education would provide superior results.

Healing after Hurricane Ian

By: Swapnil Gohil, Psy.D., Provisional Psychologist Licensee-How do I pick up the pieces of my life post a catastrophic event? The physical, emotional, and psychological impact of a hurricane can be devastating. A sense of hopelessness may pervade an individual’s thought process and cause a sense of fear of the future. It is important to know that geographically areas tend to slowly recover from the aftermath of a hurricane. However, what about the elements that are not tangible? You are not alone, and the first plan of action is to ask for or seek help. Whether you are victim, first responder, or a bystander, the effects of trauma can be pervasive. Studies indicate sixty-two percent of the survivor or evacuee population met criteria for Acute Stress Disorder (Mills, Edmondson, & Park, 2007). Through further research individuals who meet the criteria for Acute Stress Disorder were likely to develop Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Approximately, forty-nine percent met criteria for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder within two years of experiencing the disaster. The risk of retraumatization runs high post the disaster due to the continual broadcasting of images of flattened buildings, uprooted trees, and flooded streets dominating the news coverage. However, many other factors add to the stress being experienced by the survivors.

Due to the volatile nature of a hurricane many individuals experience lack of power and a disruption in communication networks. These aspects make it difficult to provide care to vulnerable individuals. Another area where hurricane victims may be impacted are individuals struggling with addiction. During these stressful moments individuals may relapse or may experience an increase in consumption. Similarly, patients may experience an increase in depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder traits. The effects are seen due to the volatile environment and unpredictability of the hurricane. Other elements that increase these traits are the fear of death and the increase of mortality rates. Within the next six months these individuals may be at risk of traumatic of bereavement or prolonged grief. The long-lasting effects of the hurricane go far beyond the physical health of an individual. However, the power of hope and healing is associated with knowing that you are not alone. Thus, the importance of understanding the ubiquitous reactions to a catastrophic event are of the utmost importance. Developing an understanding of these reactions can help the individual cope effectively with their feelings, cognitions, and behaviors.

In the wake of a hurricane there are several steps one can take. It is important for the individual to accept or become aware of the challenging event. During these moments it is important to evaluate that you and your family are safe and are in a safe location. In addition, it is important to create a space for oneself to acknowledge the loss one has experienced. People should also seek support from trained and licensed providers. Reaching out to a mental health providers can help the individual become educated on the normal responses to a catastrophic event and assist the person in moving forward. Psychologists can help by providing evidence-based treatments to help people manage their emotions around traumatic events. The provider will us psychotherapy that fits the patient’s characteristics and best addresses the person’s problem. Research has found to be effective for a wide range of conditions including pain, anxiety, and mood disorders. Therapy can be for an individual, couples, family, or other group.

Dr. Swapnil Gohil has extensive experience working with trauma. His approach to trauma is rooted in an amalgamation of Prolonged Exposure and Trauma-Focused CBT. Dr. Gohil became well versed in these forms of therapy through his experience in psychiatric hospitals, crisis centers, substance rehabilitation centers, teaching hospital settings, and forensic hospitals. Here at Davenport Psychology, our goal is to meet you where you are and allow you to be the captain of the ship and the driving force of therapy. Although processing trauma is not easy, at Davenport Psychology, we are specifically sensitive to the patient’s inhibitions and boundaries. Therefore, treatment is conducted at the patient’s own pace. Whether emotional, physical, sexual, or spiritual trauma, we are here to help. Please feel free to contact us and ask questions you may have.

Davenport Psychology is here to talk and help you break the barriers of trauma 941-702-2457.

Mary Alice Mills, Donald Edmondson, Crystal L. Park, “Trauma and Stress Response Among Hurricane Katrina Evacuees”, American Journal of Public Health 97, no. Supplement_1 (April 1, 2007): pp. S116-S123.

Trauma and Parenting: Understanding Your Child’s Needs

When you’re parenting after trauma, your focus naturally turns to your child and helping them recover from the pain they’ve experienced. However, it’s essential not to neglect yourself and your own needs during this time since doing so could negatively impact your parenting abilities.

Studies have shown that childhood trauma can affect children as they grow up and can be linked to depression, anxiety, drug addiction, and many other social problems. Nevertheless, there are several things parents can do to help their children recover after a traumatic event and may even help prevent issues from arising in the first place.

This article is tailored to help you cope with trauma and meet your child’s needs best when you or they have been affected by trauma.

Forms of Trauma

One is traumatized when they feel threatened, which is the case with children who rely on those close to them for safety and love. Abuse can be traumatic, but traumatic experiences are numerous.

Neglect
Separations
Violence between caregivers
Natural disasters
Accidents

How the Brain Reacts to Trauma

When you are confronted with a painful experience, your brain will ensure that you never forget it. Such incidents are remembered in mind and by the body. Trauma can be viewed as a succession of sensations accompanied by sound, scent, and sentiments.

They can enter the present, with the person experiencing them unaware that they recall a memory. Memories can also be remembered in this manner. Any of these events could trigger a child’s memory of what occurred to them, causing them to become terrified. That is referred to as a trigger.

Triggers

Triggers can be odors, sounds, locations, postures, or vocal tones. For example, if someone is nervous about violence at home, this may lead to anxiety about school. Physical violence or retreat are examples of these changes. Even for a toddler, identifying triggers might be complex. If a child learns what a trigger is, they will be more cautious to avoid it.

Associated Disorders

The linked problem manifests itself in various ways, such as when children are unable to concentrate because they are constantly on alert. If caregivers and doctors do not recognize the effects of trauma on development, children with experience may exhibit hyperarousal or hypervigilance, symptoms that are easily confused with hyperactivity and indifference may lead to an incorrect diagnosis of ADHD.

Traumatized children may also be filled with emotion and struggle with unexpected events. Their desire for control may be misconstrued as deceptive or demanding that everything be done their way. These violent behaviors may be difficult to transition from one activity to another, even if they were suitable at the time of the trauma, but they may no longer be appropriate.

What Foster and Adoptive Parents Can do to Help

Children adopted or who are in foster care have frequently experienced trauma. They may be able to detect and deal with the threat that others do not, and their minds may constantly be “on guard.”

Many of these children have never learned to rely on steady, dependable parents, and traditional parenting methods may no longer be effective. It can be difficult to recall that these emotions may occur with you, but they are not about you. These intense sentiments are a result of the previous traumas.

Learning to Trust After Trauma

All newborn newborns are defenseless and reliant. Consistent and caring caretakers teach babies to trust others and to feel worthwhile and deserving of love. This is crucial for a child’s healthy development. We cannot survive without the assistance of others. It is especially true when times are tough.

Adults who are supportive and compassionate can assist a youngster in recovering from traumatic circumstances. Some youngsters may have never had adults help them before and may be unaware that people can assist them or be trusted.

They may be resistant to outside assistance. Adults’ lack of trust can be misinterpreted as disdain towards authority. This can cause issues at home and school. It can also make learning more difficult.

It might be challenging to determine who is affected by trauma. Children who have been abused may withdraw from people and appear shy and fearful. They might also be extremely friendly to everyone they meet.

They may overstep personal boundaries, putting themselves at risk of further abuse. They must choose between “trust no one” and “trust everyone, but not too much.”

Strategies That Can Help You and Your Child Adjust to Trauma’s Effects

Learn to recognize and avoid (or reduce) “triggers.” Determine what distracts or causes anxiety in your youngster. Make an effort to reduce these things.
Establish routines for your child (for each day, meals, and bedtime), so they know what to expect.
Simple decisions can give your youngster a sense of control. It will help if you respect your child’s decisions.
Try to remain calm. Find strategies to respond to outbursts that do not exacerbate the situation. Reduce your volume. Do not yell or act aggressively. Do not gaze or look directly at your youngster for an extended period. Some children perceive this as a danger.
When your kid keeps you at a distance, stay available and responsive.
Avoid physical punishment as a form of discipline. It may trigger panic and out-of-control behavior in a child who has been abused.

Allow your youngster to express their emotions. Teach your child words to explain their feelings while calm and words to use when they are distressed. Show kids acceptable ways to deal with their feelings. Then, commend them for expressing their emotions or for calming down.

Conclusion

The most challenging part of parenting after trauma is finding a balance between focusing on your child’s needs, acknowledging your history as well as any challenges you may face as a result of it, and respecting your child’s experience.

By understanding your child’s feelings and acting in ways that validate those feelings—and staying connected with them through open dialogue—you can create an environment that supports both of you.

If you’re struggling with parenting and trauma, do contact a mental health expert in your locality.

Is your spirit abused?

By: Swapnil Gohil, Psy.D., Provisional Psychologist Licensee- Lois E. Gibbon defined spiritual abuse as “The act of a spiritual leader or system that tries to control, manipulate, or dominate a person.” We have seen extreme forms of spiritual abuse broadcasted over news channels or the multiple threads of various social media platforms. However, does this form of abuse occur in our local churches? Before diving into this topic, let’s look at the history and see if the church has ever engaged in activities that can illustrate or personify this definition.

Historically speaking, the church has been involved in selling indulgences, basically manipulating individuals to believe they buy tickets to heaven. The church also persecuted individuals during the split between the Roman Catholic and Protestant ideologies. Currently, the church has struggled with sexual abuse within the Catholic church. These examples show that spiritual abuse is similar to emotional, physical, and sexual abuse. However, the difference is the congregation or spiritual leader’s relationship with the victim. Abuse within a personal, intimate relationship is kept private behind closed doors. Spiritual abuse allows the minimization of an individual to happen in a congregation through nonadherence to a stipulated mission of the organization. This dynamic can ostracize an individual, for it may cause separations with friends and family members that have established one’s self-identity.

church can also abuse. Dr. Gohil treats spiritual abuse.

Therefore, the break may cause fear within the individual, and one may begin to question one’s understanding of abuse. Thus, an individual may engage in the ideology of the “No talk” rule. A warning sign of spiritual abuse is that an individual can no longer respectfully question leadership, thus allowing the church to maintain its status quo. In his book Churches That Abuse, Ron Enroth stated, “Traditional evangelical churches value and respect individual differences. Mostly, they encourage people to become unique persons in their own right, not mere photocopies of someone else. Authoritarian, manipulative fringe groups, on the other hand, encourage clones and promote cookie-cutter lifestyles.”

Trauma in any domain can be detrimental to the individual. Trauma is a response to being abused, and denial is the most prominent factor inhibiting an individual from receiving the proper care. Denial may be a conscious decision, or the individual may not understand what they experienced as wrong. However, the individual’s body may register the trauma, and they may be easily triggered by any experience that may be relatable to the trauma. Thus, whether the trauma is spiritual, physical, emotional, or sexual, the effects of trauma are similar.

The most common symptoms of trauma are:

·Trouble sleeping
Fearing people and relationships
Having panic attacks
Having anxiety
Substance abuse
Low self-esteem
Feelings of self-hate
Suicidal ideation

How Dr. Swapnil Gohil treats Abuse

Swapnil Gohil Christian integration at Davenport Psychology in Sarasota, FL and Venice, FL.

My goal is to meet you where you are and allow you to be the captain of the ship and the driving force of therapy. Although processing trauma is not easy, my training and experience allows me to be sensitive to the patient’s inhibitions and boundaries. Therefore, treatment is conducted at your own pace.

Whether emotional, physical, sexual, or spiritual trauma, I am here to help.

Please feel free to contact Davenport Psychology if you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment. I am here to talk and help you break the barriers of trauma.