Intergenerational Trauma, Healing, Resilience, and Wellbeing
As a member of the Research & Design team at Red House, Georgetown University, I engaged in interdisciplinary research and meta-analysis on intergenerational trauma and wellbeing. This work was part of the Being & Transforming think tank partnership with The Wellbeing Project, where we utilized collaborative discussions with experts, academics, practitioners, and artists to distill different disciplines and perspectives on the relationship between trauma and wellbeing. Each participant brought unique perspectives to the conversation, enriching our understanding of how to transform cycles of trauma into pathways for collective wellbeing.
From these conversations with the Think Tank and from a variety of global communities across The Wellbeing Project network, we developed a comprehensive theory of change framework aimed at informing policy and action across various sectors, ultimately contributing to meaningful transformation in the field of wellbeing.
To learn more and read the Executive Summary (full paper forthcoming), visit https://www.intergenerational-trauma.com/.
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To learn more and read the Executive Summary (full paper forthcoming), visit https://www.intergenerational-trauma.com/. 〰️
Publication Alert 🧠
Transforming Higher Education: Building Trauma-Informed Communities for Healing and Intergenerational Wellbeing
In "Transforming Higher Education: Building Trauma-Informed Communities for Healing and Intergenerational Wellbeing," co-authored with an incredible trauma-informed neuroscientist Mays Imad, PhD, and global mental health and neuroscience expert Byron Bitanihirwe, PhD, we explore the urgent need for trauma-informed approaches within higher education to address the pervasive impacts of trauma on students, faculty, and staff. The article emphasizes that trauma can hinder learning and well-being, thus creating a barrier to academic success and personal growth. By implementing trauma-informed practices, institutions can foster supportive environments that prioritize healing, resilience, and intergenerational wellbeing. The authors propose a comprehensive framework for developing trauma-informed communities, focusing on education, policy, and institutional culture shifts. Through collaboration, training, and ongoing support, colleges and universities can transform their campuses into spaces where all individuals can thrive, ultimately contributing to a healthier society.
This article contributes to a broader dialogue on systems change by advocating for trauma-informed practices in higher education as a pathway to promote intergenerational wellbeing. It highlights the critical role educational institutions play in shaping not only individual student experiences but also community health and resilience. By addressing the systemic impacts of trauma and prioritizing healing, the piece emphasizes that universities can serve as catalysts for transformation—fostering environments that support collective growth and empowerment. This approach aligns with the growing recognition of the interconnectedness of social systems and the need for a holistic response to wellbeing, encouraging a shift in institutional culture that honors the past while actively nurturing future generations.
