Racism, War, and our Collective Trauma

The truths of brutality, racism, and injustice have resurfaced in the media over the past several years. The fact remains, racism and injustice have been a problem in this country for hundreds of years, not just now.

In just the past week, war was started in Ukraine. The Ukrainian people abroad and here in the US are facing a trauma of war, uncertainty, and fear. The world itself is bracing for an uncertain future. This is trauma.

The past few years have been a collective trauma. As a BIPOC therapist, I’ve sat with clients processing this, while I’ve had to process my very own thoughts on the pandemic, injustice, and the world with my own therapist.

I’m here with you so let’s talk.

What can therapy do to help during this period of our life?

Therapy with a therapist you connect with is the first step. Not every therapist has the same specialities and the same perspective on life. It’s okay to choose a therapist based on their specialties. The connection is important.

Next, take your time in therapy. Healing is not a race. There is not a timeline for your healing. Be easy on yourself, don’t judge yourself, and let the therapy work for you.

What can I do to feel normal again?

Normal, as we once knew it, may not exist again. I know that sounds scary, but it will be okay. The new normal is different than what it was a few years ago. What you can do is try to find calm within yourself and find the hidden gems in your life. Therapy can help with this. Therapy can help you regain focus, process, and find moments of joy even in the middle of uncertainty.

How do I process what I’m feeling?

Feelings of anxiety, fear, and confusion are normal. What’s happened is not fair! You are worth so much! It is okay to be angry and grieve.

Therapy is a place to process what you’re feeling. Therapy isn’t always about meditating and grounding, although some people find those techniques helpful. The therapist can listen and handle your feelings. A good therapist will help you wade through the waters of your trauma.

At S & J Wellness, our therapists can listen, help you process, heal, grieve, and help you find moments of joy. Joy is still out there, despite what’s going on within and around us. Healing is not easy but in the end, healing your soul wounds is worth it. You are worth it.

Contact us today to set up an appointment with a therapist. Let us help you navigate