227: Parenting Through Collective Trauma

It’s a good time to acknowledge the trauma that is raging around the world, which just adds to the stress from the challenges we have come through with the COVID pandemic. Here in the US, we are going through a time of multiple mass shootings, baby formula shortages, wars in other countries, political issues, and controversy about women’s bodies. There is lots of tense energy, worry, and confusion, along with the normal challenges of parenthood. For many parents, it has become very hard to process it all and keep living life. With so many people experiencing anxiety, depression, exhaustion, and burnout, navigating the journey is a difficult challenge. In today’s episode, I’m calling this trauma what it is and admitting that life can be so difficult at times. Join me for a closer look.   Show Highlights:   How these traumas bring emotional impacts on parents and kids Why it’s difficult to talk to our kids about the worry, anxiety, and trauma The importance of remaining present with our feelings over tragedies like school shootings How we have been collectively traumatized by many recent events Suggestions for coping by pulling back from social media and the news Why being fully present in your own life is a good option for dealing with stressful times   My takeaways and advice: Limit your exposure to social media and news outlets. Find things and people to connect with that make you feel safe and secure. Engage in healthy and restorative activities. Realize that we all bear the mark of collective trauma. Know that you are not alone in the world and your feelings. Remember that things aren’t always going to stay this way.