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Mental Health Medications and Herbal Solutions for Anxiety and Depression
I. Introduction
In recent years, the growing interest in mental health has prompted a significant examination of both herbal and pharmaceutical approaches to managing conditions such as depression and anxiety. This exploration is particularly relevant given the chronic nature of these disorders, where traditional medications may not always yield satisfactory outcomes for patients. With the rise of integrative medicine, there is an increasing recognition of the potential benefits derived from herbal remedies alongside conventional treatments. While herbal options may offer a path less traveled, they are not without risks; interactions between these remedies and pharmaceutical drugs must be carefully considered to ensure patient safety (Aiello et al., 2018). Furthermore, the role of dietary choices, such as the Mediterranean diet, can also contribute positively to mental health, highlighting the intricate relationship between nutrition, lifestyle, and well-being (Emerson et al., 2009). This essay will delve into these dimensions, evaluating their efficacy and applicability in treating depression and anxiety.
Please also review AIHCP’s Holistic Nursing Program as well as AIHCP’s numerous mental health certifications in Stress Management, Grief Counseling and Crisis Counseling.
A. Definition of depression and anxiety
Understanding the definitions of depression and anxiety is crucial for comprehending their pervasive impact on mental health. Depression is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed, affecting daily functioning. Conversely, anxiety manifests as excessive worry or fear, often leading to physical symptoms such as increased heart rate, restlessness, and fatigue. Both conditions are deeply intertwined and can exacerbate one another, complicating diagnosis and treatment. Recent research has established the efficacy of certain herbal remedies, like saffron, in alleviating symptoms associated with these mental health disorders. In a study featuring teenagers with mild-to-moderate anxiety and depression, saffron extract (affron®) demonstrated significant improvements in internalizing symptoms, suggesting its potential as a complementary treatment option (Drummond et al., 2018). Further exploration into nonpharmacological approaches alongside traditional pharmaceuticals continues to be vital in addressing these prevalent mental health challenges (Swezey et al., 2018).
B. Overview of treatment options
The landscape of treatment options for depression and anxiety encompasses both herbal and pharmaceutical interventions, reflecting a diverse approach to managing these pervasive conditions. Herbal treatments, such as St. Johns Wort and kava, have gained prominence due to their perceived efficacy and fewer side effects compared to traditional pharmaceuticals. Research indicates that these herbal remedies may offer relief by modulating neurotransmitter levels, thereby alleviating symptoms of mood disorders. Conversely, pharmaceutical drugs, including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and benzodiazepines, are often prescribed for their established effectiveness in treating severe cases. However, concerns regarding potential adverse effects and long-term dependency have prompted interest in complementary therapies. The integration of nutritional supplements, like Pycnogenol, into treatment regimens could further enhance therapeutic outcomes by addressing underlying physiological imbalances (Emerson et al., 2009), (Ceulemans et al., 2017). Ultimately, a comprehensive treatment approach that combines both modalities may provide optimal relief for individuals suffering from depression and anxiety.
In utilizing these treatments, stress management consultants also can use a variety of calming techniques and therapies to help teach individuals to calm themselves in stressful situations, as well as grief counselors can help utilize other cognitive treatments to help individuals cope with grief.
C. Importance of understanding both herbal and pharmaceutical approaches
Integrating both herbal and pharmaceutical approaches in the treatment of depression and anxiety is essential for a holistic understanding of patient care. The efficacy of traditional herbal remedies often lies not solely in their active constituents but also in the therapeutic experience associated with their use, as underscored by findings that highlight a hedonic placebo effect contributing to high satisfaction levels among users of traditional medicines (Costa-i-Font et al., 2012). Furthermore, advancements in pharmaceutical formulations, such as the development of Bacopa Naturosome, which illustrates the potential for enhancing the bioavailability of herbal extracts, demonstrate that a synergistic approach can lead to improved clinical outcomes (Bobde et al., 2016). Recognizing the complexities of both modalities allows healthcare providers to tailor interventions that resonate more effectively with patients, ultimately enhancing treatment satisfaction and outcomes in managing depression and anxiety. Thus, a comprehensive approach that values both systems is imperative for informed clinical practice.
II. Overview of Pharmaceutical Drugs
An overview of pharmaceutical drugs used in treating depression and anxiety reveals a range of therapeutic options, each with unique mechanisms and effects. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) are commonly prescribed due to their efficacy in enhancing neurotransmitter levels, which can alleviate common mood disorders. Furthermore, benzodiazepines and various sedative antidepressants serve as alternatives, particularly for rapid symptom relief. Despite their benefits, these drugs are not without drawbacks, including potential dependence and adverse side effects. Recent guidelines suggest incorporating cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) as a primary intervention, which may be supplemented with pharmacological options when necessary, especially in cases of treatment-resistant insomnia associated with anxiety and depression (Riemann D et al., 2023). Moreover, evolving research underscores the necessity for a comprehensive understanding of age factors in clinical trials, as studies often overlook older adults, thereby affecting treatment outcomes (Fiona E Lithander et al., 2020).
A. Commonly prescribed medications for depression and anxiety
The landscape of depression and anxiety treatment often prominently features pharmaceutical interventions, particularly selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and benzodiazepines. SSRIs, such as fluoxetine and sertraline, are commonly prescribed due to their efficacy in increasing serotonin levels in the brain, which can positively influence mood regulation. Common brand names include Prozac, Luvox, Zoloft, Lexapro, and Celaxa. Benzodiazepines, including drugs like diazepam and lorazepam, serve as anxiolytics, providing rapid relief from acute anxiety symptoms; however, their potential for dependence limits their long-term use. Common brand names include Xanax, Ativan and Valium. Recent studies highlight a concerning trend regarding the prescribing patterns of these medications, underscoring significant variances across different regions and patient demographics (Bjornsdottir et al., 2014). Furthermore, the rise of nootropics, aimed at cognitive enhancement, draws attention to the nuanced interplay between mental health and performance in contemporary society, suggesting a shift toward multifaceted approaches in managing depression and anxiety (Bersani et al., 2020). This evolving understanding emphasizes the importance of tailoring treatment plans to individual needs and contexts.
B. Mechanisms of action of pharmaceutical drugs
Understanding the mechanisms of action of pharmaceutical drugs is crucial for addressing depression and anxiety effectively. The majority of these drugs target neurotransmitter systems, primarily involving serotonin (5-HT), norepinephrine, and dopamine. For instance, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) enhance serotonergic activity by inhibiting the reabsorption of serotonin in the brain, thus increasing its availability and improving mood. This approach highlights the significance of neurotransmitter balance in mental health, where disruptions can lead to various mood disorders. However, the pharmacodynamics of these drugs remain complex, as evidenced by the varied responses observed among patients, necessitating ongoing research into more effective and tailored treatments. Moreover, the lack of approved pharmacological options for conditions such as tinnitus exposes the need for novel therapies. As noted, effective relief from symptoms is still a pressing challenge, underscoring the potential of advancements in pharmacotherapy to revolutionize treatment approaches (Bel Aén Elgoyhen et al., 2009), (Overy et al., 2013).
Benzodiazepines increase GABBA in the brain. By reducing Gamma-aminobutyric acid, a neurotransmitter that helps the efficiency of transmitting messages between neurons, the overall process is slowed through the increase of GABBA hence relaxing the mind. Some of the more common brand names include Xanax, Valium and Ativan. All have addictive qualities and have potential minor side effects. The dose and frequency is determined by a physician or prescribing mental health professional. It is imperative to discuss any herbal supplements with a provider if already taking a prescribed benzodiazepine.
C. Potential side effects and risks associated with pharmaceutical treatments
The growing reliance on pharmaceutical treatments for depression and anxiety raises significant concerns regarding potential side effects and risks associated with these medications. Many prescribed drugs can elicit adverse reactions, ranging from mild symptoms like drowsiness and headaches to more severe effects such as mood changes, anxiety, and substance dependence. For instance, the uncontrolled availability of certain medications has been linked to the induction of psychological symptoms, which may exacerbate existing conditions in vulnerable populations, particularly those with psychiatric disorders (Chillemi E et al., 2014). Furthermore, while complementary and alternative therapies are often sought for their perceived safety, they too can contain active ingredients that pose risks when combined with pharmaceutical treatments; thus, the safety and efficacy of both conventional and alternative options warrant careful evaluation within this context (Ekstein et al., 2014). Consequently, the assessment of side effects must be integral to the discourse on optimal treatment for mental health disorders.
The potential of side effects is always a possibility and that is why prescribers work with their patients starting with lower doses over the first weeks to see if any reactions exist. Sometimes, a different type of SSRI or Benzodiazepine is needed. While closer related, different types of generic names within the family can sometimes work for different individuals. In addition, these same reactions push many individuals to more herbal solutions. This is fine but it must be done with caution and guidance since many prescriptions are important or need to be gradually weaned off of to avoid withdraw. In addition, many other grief and anxiety related therapies and counseling techniques exist to help individuals cope. Whether or not someone needs pharmaceutical or herbal or merely treatment or a combination of all depends on the individual and the guidance of the mental health and primary physician teams.
III. Herbal Remedies for Depression and Anxiety
The exploration of herbal remedies for depression and anxiety has gained significant traction in both clinical settings and popular belief systems. Among these remedies, Lavandula angustifolia, commonly known as lavender, has been shown to exhibit promising results. In a study involving patients receiving Citalopram, those who consumed a lavender infusion alongside their medication exhibited a notable decrease in depression scores after both four and eight weeks, suggesting its potential as an adjunct therapy (Asghari et al., 2013). The implications of such findings position herbal treatments as a viable complement to pharmaceuticals, particularly for individuals seeking holistic approaches to mental health. Additionally, the conversation surrounding nootropics emphasizes the cultural shift towards enhancing cognitive function and overall well-being, revealing an increasing interest in natural substances that may improve quality of life without the adverse effects often associated with conventional medications (Bersani et al., 2020). As research continues to unfold, the integration of herbal remedies into mainstream treatment protocols remains a promising avenue for further investigation.
A. Popular herbal treatments and their uses
The increasing prevalence of mental health disorders has spurred interest in popular herbal treatments, particularly for conditions such as depression and anxiety. Among these treatments, herbs like St. Johns Wort and valerian root have garnered significant attention for their therapeutic potential. St. Johns Wort, for instance, has been extensively studied for its ability to alleviate mild to moderate depression, with some research supporting its efficacy comparable to conventional antidepressants. In addition to St John’s Wort, is lavender, passion flower, chamomile, and other natural serotonin reuptake inhibitors. In regards to anxiety, Valerian root, known for its calming effects, is often utilized as a natural remedy for anxiety and insomnia, promoting improved sleep quality without the sedative side effects commonly associated with pharmaceutical alternatives. Furthermore, the anti-inflammatory properties of curcumin, a compound found in turmeric, suggest a broader role in addressing mood disorders linked to chronic inflammation, making it a compelling candidate for further study in the development of herbal treatments (Peng Y et al., 2021). In addition to valerian root, Understanding the abundance and biodiversity of these medicinal herbs is crucial for sustainable sourcing and effective drug development (Heinrich M et al., 2021)
B. Scientific evidence supporting herbal remedies
There’s a growing buzz around using herbal remedies to ease depression and anxiety. Interestingly, a rising amount of research is trying to back up whether they actually work and are safe to use. For example, lots of studies have looked at how well-known herbs might work, and some have found that particular plants contain active ingredients that can tweak the brain’s mood-regulating chemicals. That said, it’s important to be careful about jumping to conclusions. The research on many herbal treatments isn’t always solid or consistent. It’s really important to put these treatments under a microscope, especially because how the herbs are extracted and how much you use can change things. What’s more, even though some people swear by these remedies based on what they’ve seen, we often don’t have the scientific proof to say for sure that they work. More research is needed to figure out if they truly cause the improvements or if something else is going on (Ghosh et al., 2010), (Elliott et al., 2002). So, it’s best to keep an open mind when thinking about using herbal remedies alongside standard treatments.
C. Safety and efficacy concerns regarding herbal treatments
Herbal treatments for things like depression and anxiety definitely call for some serious thought, especially when it comes to how safe and effective they really are. Sure, there are studies suggesting that certain herbal supplements, saffron, could help with mental health. But the thing is, how consistent are these results, really? Take, for example, a controlled trial where they saw some improvement in young people dealing with mild to moderate anxiety and depression. Even there, the researchers pointed out that what the kids said and what their parents noticed didn’t always line up, suggesting it might work differently for different people (Drummond et al., 2018). Then you’ve got a review looking at acupuncture and herbs for premenstrual syndrome. It showed some relief, but the studies themselves weren’t that big, and the methods used weren’t always top-notch, which makes you wonder if the results hold up in the long run, or apply to everyone (Kim DI et al., 2014). So, while herbal treatments might seem like a good option, we need to make sure we really nail down how safe they are, how well they actually work, and that we put them to the test in proper clinical trials.
IV. Comparative Analysis of Herbal and Pharmaceutical Approaches
When exploring treatments for depression and anxiety, it’s useful to compare herbal and pharmaceutical options, focusing on how well they work, how safe they are, and how patients feel about them. Medicines like SSRIs are clinically proven to help, but side effects can push people toward other options. Herbal remedies, like St. John’s Wort, are popular because they seem natural and have fewer side effects reported. It’s worth noting that Ginkgo biloba, for instance, comes up a lot when talking about possible benefits and drawbacks, so it’s good to be careful (Chillemi E et al., 2014). Additionally, some research suggests that acupuncture and herbal remedies can really help with things like premenstrual syndrome, hinting that these approaches could work for some people (Kim DI et al., 2014). So, while both ways have something to offer, more research would help us understand how they stack up against each other for mental health overall.
A. Effectiveness of herbal vs. pharmaceutical treatments
The discussion around how well herbal treatments work for depression and anxiety, when stacked up against pharmaceutical options, has really picked up steam in both the academic world and in clinical practice. Pharmaceutical drugs, which often come with side effects and the risk of dependency, are usually the go-to treatment. But herbal remedies, like St. John’s Wort and other plant-based therapies, have become alternatives people are considering. Studies seem to be showing that these herbal options could help ease symptoms, and maybe with fewer bad side effects, hinting at them being fairly safe. For example, one review pointed out that treatments like acupuncture and herbal medicine led to noticeable improvements in things like premenstrual syndrome, with more than half the people in the study saying their symptoms got better. This underlines how they might help with mood issues and stress-related symptoms (Kim DI et al., 2014). Plus, as integrative medicine becomes more popular, it’s super important to look at how herbal supplements and regular medications might interact, especially for groups like veterans, where other health problems might make treatment trickier (Aiello et al., 2018). So, taking a good look at and comparing these different treatment methods is key for creating well-rounded and effective ways to tackle mental health.
B. Patient preferences and accessibility issues
When we look at how patients feel about herbal versus pharmaceutical treatments for depression and anxiety, alongside how easy it is for them to get these treatments, it’s clear that how happy they are with their treatment really affects how well it works. A lot of people seem to like old-fashioned herbal medicines better, thinking they’re easier to get and fit better with what they believe. This might be because of something called the hedonic placebo effect, where just taking traditional medicines makes people feel better, even if there’s not a lot of scientific proof (Costa-i-Font et al., 2012). Also, getting access to treatments is a big deal. Patients often have trouble getting regular pharmaceutical drugs because they cost too much, aren’t available, or the healthcare system doesn’t work well. It’s really important to think about how people try to get healthy. Discussions at events like the 3rd Java International Nursing Conference highlight the need to consider patient experiences when treating them in clinics and in their communities (Nurmalia (Editor) et al., 2015).
C. Integration of both approaches in treatment plans
Combining herbal and pharmaceutical methods in depression and anxiety treatment is becoming a really important step forward in mental health. Healthcare providers can create full treatment plans that deal with both the symptoms and the root causes by mixing the power of regular medicines with the overall health benefits of herbal treatments. For example, patients might feel better emotionally when they use herbal medicines with their regular antidepressants, which can lead to a better life and easier management of side effects (Howard et al., 2015). This combined method not only makes the treatment options wider but also takes into account what patients like, helping them stick to their treatment plans. Plus, knowing things like a patient’s age, education, and how far their illness has progressed can help doctors choose the right herbal and pharmaceutical treatments, making sure the plans fit what each patient needs (Catalani et al., 2019). So, putting these two treatment types together looks like it could provide more useful and customized care in mental health.
Holistic nursing professionals can also guide individuals in properly utilizing in a safe way the integration of herbal remedies with pharmaceutical medications.
V. Conclusion
To conclude, combining herbal remedies with pharmaceutical drugs presents a potentially beneficial strategy for treating depression and anxiety, offering a more comprehensive approach to mental health care. Research has demonstrated, for example, that compounds such as curcumin possess notable anti-inflammatory effects, indicating a possible role in affecting mood disorders (Peng Y et al., 2021). This highlights the value of integrating both traditional and modern medical practices to potentially improve treatment effectiveness and patient results. Additionally, as emphasized in current guidelines, the importance of personalized treatment plans highlights the necessity of accounting for individual patient needs and preferences when managing these mental health issues (Sharon L Kolasinski et al., 2020). As clinicians and researchers further investigate the interactions between herbal treatments and conventional medications, a deeper understanding of these dynamics will probably result in improved care for depression and anxiety, leading to better overall mental well-being across various populations.
It is always important to consult a physician or mental health professional when supplementing herbal remedies with pharmaceutical ones. Sometimes, they share similar traits that can enhance the prescription in power and increase a desired effect, or another herb may counteract a different medical prescription. Ultimately, herbal remedies can serve as a long term supplement when used correctly and under care with less side effects but many require pharmaceutical treatments in more acute cases.
Please review AIHCP’s Stress Management Program, as well as its Holistic Nursing Program.
A. Summary of key findings
When we consider the main points about using both herbal remedies and prescribed drugs for depression and anxiety, we see that these two types of treatments affect each other in complicated ways. Lots of people use herbal medicines together with their prescriptions, especially older folks; numbers show that anywhere from about 5% to almost 90% do this (A Cherubini et al., 2017). Antidepressants are often taken with herbs like St. John’s Wort, which worries doctors because these combinations might cause problems, particularly with bleeding (A Cherubini et al., 2017). Also, even though we don’t have a lot of scientific proof that traditional medicine works well, people seem happy with it, maybe because of a strong placebo effect that makes them feel good. Because of all this, it’s important for doctors to really understand what their patients are doing to take care of themselves and to think about how helpful treatments are, both in terms of the process and the results.
B. Implications for future research and treatment
Delving into both herbal and pharmaceutical approaches to tackle depression and anxiety carries weighty implications for what’s next in research and treatments. The latest breakthroughs in grasping how G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) work hint that we might be able to design drugs that are much better at targeting mental health issues (Yang D et al., 2021). On another front, looking at herbal remedies that have historically been used for breathing problems, especially during today’s health scares, has shown they could be helpful additions to treatment plans (Dâmaris Silveira et al., 2020). This blend of old herbal wisdom and new pharmaceuticals really drives home the point that we need thorough clinical trials to check if these combinations are both effective and safe. If we push for these combined methods, future research could really open doors to tailored treatments that improve how patients do overall, all while tackling the many-sided challenges of mental health more broadly.
C. Final thoughts on the role of herbal and pharmaceutical drugs in mental health care
To sum up, looking at both herbal remedies and pharmaceutical drugs in mental health care, you find a tricky mix that really needs some thought. Things are always changing in mental health, and both ways of treating it have their good points. For quite a few people dealing with depression and anxiety, pharmaceutical drugs have shown they can work well. On the other hand, herbal treatments might add some extra help, maybe without as many side effects as some of the drugs. Still, there’s a chance that drugs could interact with each other, especially for certain groups like veterans, who might have specific health concerns. That’s why it’s so important to tailor treatment to each person. (Aiello et al., 2018) Also, nootropics are becoming more popular, showing that people are really interested in boosting their brainpower, probably because society is pushing for better mental performance in demanding situations. (Bersani et al., 2020) So, when it comes down to it, the best way forward could be a whole-person approach that focuses on being safe, giving personalized care, and putting different methods together. This could really help folks who are having a hard time with their mental health.
AIHCP Blogs and Videos
Holistic Herbs Video- Access here
Additional Resources
Pope, C (2023). “Benzodiazepines”. Drugs.com. Access here
“Benzodiazepines”. Medicine.net. Access here
Pope, C. (2023). “SSRI Drugs List” Drugs.com. Access here
Syed, P & Kubala, J. (2025). “6 Herbal Treatments That May Help Depression Symptoms”. Healthline. Access here
Behavioral and Mental Health Certifications: Signs of Trauma in the Population
Trauma is part of life. Bad things occur and for some the bad things are more horrific and imprinting upon the person. Estimates themselves reflect this. It is calculated that 70 percent of all human beings will experience some type of trauma that is beyond the basic losses and pains of this temporal world. In addition, 75 percent of children will experience some type of adverse childhood experience (ACE) that can negatively effect their emotional, mental, social and physical development.
While natural disaster trauma and collective social traumas leave deep marks on human beings, it is the violent and mystifying actions of evil at the hands of other human beings that leave the most devastating marks on the soul. Wars, genocides, human trafficking, sexual abuse, rape, shootings as well as being witness to horrific murders and abusive events can all leave a horrible imprint on a person, whether child or adult. While the event itself plays a key role, amazingly some individuals can process trauma and not linger with the effects of prolonged pain or PTSD. This does not make those succumb to trauma weak, or cowardly, but illustrates the reality that trauma is not just about the horrific event but also the subjective experience and the lingering effects following it. One’s genetic makeup, the social constructs and support around them, individual character and resiliency, as well as genetic and mental makeup due to past history can all play roles in how one may digest and cope trauma as opposed to another.
In states of crisis, a person suffers from disequilibrium and de-stabilization of self. The brain loses ability to handle the current situation because it overwhelms one’s coping mechanism. This leads to emotional distress and inability to cope. One is unable to think or act clearly. Those who experience severe trauma in the acute moment of it usually experience this overwhelming leaving them in the aftermath confused, lost and emotional unstable. The purpose of crisis intervention and emotional triage via emotional and psychological first aid are essential in these moments to help the person find equilibrium as well as stabilization but the efforts of long term trauma care and counseling falls under trauma informed care.
Within the population there is a high level of individuals suffering from long term trauma and PTSD. It is important for mental health and healthcare professionals to understand the signs of trauma and be better equipped to help those experiencing it in the present as well as those suffering from the past lingering effects.
Please also review AIHCP’s Trauma Informed Care, as well as Crisis Intervention and other behavioral and mental health certifications. Qualified professionals can utilize these certifications within the scope of their practice to better help those in pastoral or clinical settings of needed care.
Trauma Signs
Flight, Flee, Freeze or Fawn
The most common reactions to trauma include fight, flight, freeze or fawn (Compton, 2024 p. 105-107). The latter two have been added over the years and are equally important. In understanding human survival, these mechanisms are key in helping an individual make it through a life threatening situation. How a a person responds or does not respond does not equate to inadequacy or cowardice or acceptance of an event, but relates to numerous subconscious immediate decisions in a given situation based on subjective experiences within the person’s life. These particular reactions also play key roles in later trauma recovery because individuals may question, feel guilty or be ashamed of particular reactions.
When the body experiences a threat, the brain and body activate the sympathetic nervous system. This system releases cortisol into the blood stream and other hormones to help prepare the body for danger. The heart rate rises, blood flow increases and muscles tighten to help the body fend off the threat. In this moment of extreme stress, the brain mixed with multiple emotional responses decides to fight off the situation, flee the situation, or in some cases, shuts down the body to freeze. This is seen in nature as well. Animals will fight back, flee or sometimes freeze in utter fear in hopes of being left alone. In human beings, many of the same thoughts race through the mind. With emotion, comes intellectual thoughts based on our subjective history and experience. Can I fight this threat, if not, can I flee or avoid it, or should I freeze and hope. Many times in horror movies, we see the later. We scream at the television for the actor or actress to run or move, but the person is so terrified, he or she shows no resistance to the killer, slasher or monster. This response of freeze is referred to tonic immobility and it tied to the body’s psychological attempt to detach from reality and the danger since it has accepted fight of flight as an impossible option (Compton, 2024, p. 106). Hence some women who are raped, may completely freeze and the body shuts down while the brain experiences the fear and trauma. During this shutdown, some psychologists use other terms to explain this sensation of immobility. During the intense moments of fright of the trauma, the body may flag itself into immobility. During this intense freeze or flagging, ironically the sympathetic nervous system and its reaction releases itself to the parasympathetic system which returns blood back to the core of the body, eases muscle tension, and the body becomes almost frozen. Frozen in fright, the mental brain looks to shut down or dissociate from the trauma. In these cases, many victims may not even feel physical pain, see as clearly, or hear but they remain frozen and in some cases, even dissociate to the point of almost feeling as if out of the body and looking downward. In addition, since the trauma is so intense, the body’s coping mechanism looks to detach and many details of the assault or trauma or not properly logged. Instead, the emotional part of the brain takes over. This is also why sometimes details of survivors in regards to trauma may be not be as precise as law enforcement sometimes may wish. Finally, beyond this freezing, fright and flagging, occurs the final defense mechanism of the body which involves faint. In this, the body shuts down consciousness to the horrible ideal.
In regards to fawn, victims in an attempt to survive will work with the assailant and not resist but attempt to be be accepting of the situation. Children, and again women in assault cases, many times to survive will use this last option as a way in hopes of reducing the pain inflicted. Without escape or any hope, they succumb to the wishes of the assailant whether it involves laughing with them, or taking drugs with them, or pretending to enjoy, or partake to avoid physical injury. According to Compton, this response is completely unique to humans as a way to escape a situation in hopes of making it less worst and later survive (2024, p. 107). Some victims may consider the price of cooperating better than the price of being beaten and killed if they attempt to resist. Sometimes, pending on the psychopath or assailant, this may work in reducing injuries, while in some cases, the perpetrator injures or kills regardless. However, within the subjective mind of the victim, the call to fawn or not fawn is gamble that is made in the heat of the moment.
What later plays a role in prolonged and unresolved trauma for survivors are the cognitive distortions that can result from whichever action one chose. Those who did not fight back or flee, but froze may be hard on themselves and feel they could have saved themselves if they had just acted. A woman who did not flee a rapist, or a soldier who froze in an attack may all suffer deep remorse or regret for their actions. Yet, their responses were not so much conscious but related to inner wiring of how they would respond in this particular situation. The trauma was so powerful, they were forced to detach from the utter horrific nature of the event. Equally if not more harmful cognitive distortions can emerge with those who utilize fawning as a way to survive. They display shame and guilt and even to some extent may think they partook in it voluntarily. A woman may feel shame in laughing or accepting drugs during a rape and even doubt her victimhood but the reality is the woman entered into a survival mechanism to limit harm to self (Compton, 2024, p. 107). Counselors need to affirm the fears these individuals feel, listen with empathy and without judgement the reactions in the moment and help cognitively realign the experience with reality of “having to do what you had to do to survive”. The survivor needs vindicated in the choices made to keep him/her alive in a horrific moment no person should have to endure.
Intrusions
In addition to trauma responses and their linger effects, individuals, especially those with PTSD, suffer from intrusions. Intrusions, flashbacks, or nightmares can be triggered by simple scents, sights, sounds, or places. Due to the fact the horrific trauma imprinted upon the emotional part of the brain within the amygdala, the emotions and sounds of the moments became associated with the event. Hence even a simple backfire of a car can send an Iraq or Afghanistan veteran into a flashback on a city street. Due to the trauma, many of the normal reasoning functions of the pre-frontal cortex associated with the memory were never properly filed within the brain and processed as a healthy moment in time. Instead, the memory is raw and unprocessed as closely tied to the emotional responses of the day of trauma. In turn, a sight, scent, taste, or sound closely associated with that traumatic event can trigger a response that intrudes into the mind and takes the person away from the present. Severity of these responses vary in flashbacks but some can completely cause dissociation from the present. The person will enter into a flashback where they are no longer present. Some individuals may lose hours of the day or merely minutes pending on severity. Others will be haunted by unresolved nightmares that place the survivor back in the traumatic situation. Counselors who work with trauma survivors or individuals they suspect of past trauma will be able to identify these key signs of abuse or unresolved issues.
Hyperarousal or hypervigilance
One key sign of trauma is hyperarousal or hypervigilance. Many who suffer from trauma have a heightened sense of awareness of certain places or people. This heightened awareness activates a survivor’s sympathetic nervous system and leaves them in a state of watching or preparing for the worst. A retired soldier may watch various entrances of all escape routes or doorways even when at a simple dinner with his wife and children. A rape victim may be terrified to walk by an alley. School shooting survivors may during class time also experience issues returning to school or walking into the building. Due to the hypervigilance and the imprinted trauma, ones arousal level is so high that the thinking part of the brain cannot differentiate between the traumatic historic event and current situations that pose no threat. In addition, many completely seek shelter and protection from the public eye and seek isolation to cope with their states of hyperarousal. The person hence becomes disconnected from the present, hyper-focuses on non-existent threats, and is in a state of fear or anxiety within normal situations (Compton, 2024, p.108-109). Counselors will need to employ various emotional regulation strategies, ground techniques, exposure and EDMR therapies, or cognitive behavioral to help the person gain control of these rampant emotional memories and flashbacks.
Changed World Views and Attitudes of Survivors
Due to this new altered sense, even when not hyper aroused, the past trauma can reshape and damage previous held world views (Compton, 2024. p, 2009). Traumatic events can alter the view that the world is a safe place. Unlike many individuals in rural areas, those who frequently experience inner city violence will definitely frame a different world view from childhood onward, especially children who were never able to experience safety and security. For those who lived the American dream, those who suddenly become victim or witness to school shooting, or experience a violent crime suddenly may come to new realities that may make them challenge their worldview, faith, God, and moral framework how the world operates. Some may become cynical, others hopeless, some angry and vindictive, others may look to over-protect others because they see danger everywhere.
World views and previous held ideas lead to different reactions to situations and life itself. Some of the key points according to Compton include a lack of safety and a sense of vulnerability that did not previously exist. In addition, Compton lists a lack of trust. This lack of trust may be towards the power of God, or the power of local government to protect oneself. Many may feel forsaken and left to fend for oneself in this state of despair. Also, Compton lists esteem and defectiveness that follows trauma. Trauma survivors can exhibit negative views about themselves and doubt their worthiness to be loved after the event, or are not deserving of a good and productive post trauma life. Others may also alter views on others and stereotype races, religions, cultures and others that are associated with the trauma itself. Through this, the person is filled with anger, suspicion and bitterness towards other people who may share the same skin color or faith of the perpetrator. Compton points out that other survivors may exhibit unnecessary power and control over others or situations in an attempt to prevent the trauma from occurring again. This type of survivor may be a person who lives in constant hyperarousal and promises that what occurred will never happen again to the point of compulsion driven by anxiety. This leads to controlling even smaller aspects of life and relationships. Some may even feel erroneously partial responsible for the trauma and will look at any cost to control all aspects to avoid the same outcome. Finally, Compton lists that intimacy and how future trauma survivors respond to others and relationships can be altered. Children who experience trauma at a young age will have different attachment disorders based on trauma ranging from anxious relationship, to avoidant ones, while adults who are reshaped by trauma may experience difficulties with intimacy. A wife who was raped may be unable to have intercourse with her husband because of the violation of the sexual act in her rape. The movements or act may activate a flashback or cause intense emotional pain. Some who are not in a relationship may seek isolation and avoid attachment and at the expense of genuine human connection, forfeit future relationships due to the traumatic event (2024. p. 109-113).
Long Term Mental and Physical Signs
Trauma damages the entirety of the human person. Untreated trauma looks to numb and escape the pains through various maladaptive ways. Whether it is isolation, avoidance, or control measures, the person still exhibits the pains of trauma. Because of this, many associated with trauma become alcoholics or drug addicts hopes of numbing the pain and escaping the memories. These short term tricks however only further damage the mind and body with addiction and all the legal, financial, social, mental and physical troubles associated with it. In addition, many mentally may attempt to numb psychic pain with physical pain and self harm themselves or even idealize suicide to escape the pain. Others may utilize sex or gambling or other unhealthy way habits. Hence, those who are associated with long term and unresolved trauma are tied to depression, anxiety, physical injuries, substance abuse, and sexually transmitted diseases (Compton, 2024, p. 116).
Physically, those who deal with long term trauma even if they avoid maladaptive practices find themselves in a constant state of hyperarousal and the activation of the sympathetic nervous system. Like chronic stress, the continual state of alert has negative effects on the body, especially the cardiovascular system. Due to the constant stress, trauma survivors or life long victims of trauma find themselves with many digestive diseases, migraines and sleep issues. This leads to immune issues related to chronic inflammation throughout the body (Compton, 2024. p. 116-117). These physical issues to lead to social issues with work, education and advancement, leaving many life long trauma survivors in perilous situations beyond their trauma itself. This all has reflections on every aspect of their life and choices which can also affect other individuals negatively. When those suffer from a singular and isolated trauma, as opposed to a communal trauma, many times the individual never finds affirmation, connection, or support. These individuals, without healing, slowly rot from the vine and deteriorate. Many fall under the rug and find themselves homeless, or imprisoned for petty crimes. Others develop more severe mental illness and can lash out at others within the community.
Hence, it is a communal issue to identify trauma signs and help individuals find the help and aid they need to heal. Counselors can look for these long term mental, physical, emotional and social signs of long term trauma to better help individuals find healing via trauma informed care.
Conclusion
When signs of trauma and abuse or missed initially, or permitted to fester, the wholeness and dignity of the person erodes. Whether it is a life long series of traumas or adverse childhood experiences, or one horrible life altering event, trauma victims/survivors need help to heal. While some individuals are resilient due to numerous and multiple subjective factors, others through no fault, fall victim to PTSD or trauma induced wounds. These individuals if not helped are unable to cope in productive ways and can harm themselves, others, relationships or ruin their own careers. This overflows into society and without a empathetic and compassionate approach to help these individuals, then society as a whole suffers. Trauma Informed Care looks to identify many of the signs listed above and better help and equip individuals to find healing and healthy coping mechanisms to heal and overcome trauma. Trauma may leave a scar but it does not need to be a destructive event in the person’s life that destroys everything the person is. Instead, human beings can heal, create new neuropathways, find meaning in horror and create positive outcomes out of the darkness.
Please also review AIHCP’s Trauma Informed Care Program, as well as its many behavioral and mental health certifications for human service workers, both clinical and pastoral, as well as healthcare professionals who seek to help and make a difference for those who have experienced trauma.
Additional Blogs
Sexual Assault. Click here
Domestic Violence. Click here
Crisis Intervention in Acute Mental Crisis. Click here
Crisis Intervention Assessment. Click here
Trauma During Counseling. Click here
Resource
Compton, L & Patterson, T. (2024) . “Skills for Safeguarding: A Guide for Preventing Abuse and Fostering Healing in the Church”. Academic
Additional Resources
“Trauma and Violence”. SAMHSA. Access here
“Identifying Trauma” Center on Child Wellbeing and Trauma. Access here
Aten, J. (2020). “How to Identify and Find Help for Trauma”. Psychology Today. Access here
“Recognizing the Effects of Abuse-Related Trauma”. CAMH. Access here
Trauma Informed Care and Re-Victimization
Abusive predators seek the most vulnerable as their prey and strike when the opportunity best presents itself. Many targets are those who have already been targeted in the past. The scars and emotional trauma associated with initial abuse signal opportunity for the predator to strike a new victim who has already once been injured. Counselors in trauma need to be aware of the potential for someone who has been abused to be abused again. This is why the work of healing is so critical. Healing helps the person find wholeness again and find strength in everyday life to proceed in a healthy way that can better equip the victim/survivor to protect oneself from future abuse at anyone’s hands. In this short blog, we will look at the most vulnerable for re-victimization as well as the open wounds of unhealed trauma that present opportunities for predators and abuses to inflict more trauma on past victims.
Please also review AIHCP’s Trauma Informed Care Program, as well as its Crisis Intervention Certification and other Behavioral Health Certifications for qualified professionals seeking certification.
At Risk Populations
Naturally the marginalized, isolated, and injured populations present opportunistic targets for predators. As a predator in nature monitors the the herd of prey, it looks for members who seem and appear physically weaker or isolated or confused or who are already injured. Likewise, human predators and abusers look for those in society that are an easier target with less chance of fighting back physically or emotionally and as well those who mentally possess low self esteem and emotional disorders. This protects them and lowers the chance for reprisal or being apprehended. This is the nature of an abuser-cowardice and opportunistic.
Some populations that are natural targets for any type of abuse include children, the elderly, emotionally and mentally comprised and those with disabilities (Compton, 2024, p.124). Hence individuals within these categories present excellent targets by the abuser not only for initial abuse but also fall into re-victimization themselves. Counselors and safe-guarders need to be aware of these target populations and look to protect them from potential dangerous environments, especially ones with previous abuse history.
What Makes the Risk Higher for Re-victimization?
Ultimately lack of healing from the initial abuse makes someone a higher risk for re-victimization at the hands of abuser or predator. The lack of healing injures the very soul of the person and prevents them from integrating into society. Many enter into maladaptive coping strategies to numb the pain of the trauma or enter into unhealthy relationships due to low self esteem and again find themselves in the same patterns.
Compton points out that attachment deficits, emotion regulation disruptions and cognitive distortions play key roles in making victims susceptible to future abuse. Compton points out that children and others who have continually experienced abuse have been stripped healthy of attachments that non-abused individuals experience with family and caregivers. Instead of a loving and caring family that promises safety and security, abused individuals live in a world of uncertainty, terror and no safety. This drastically alters their ability to understand normal relations, much less form future healthy attachments with other people. Instead of finding secure bonds, many abused that never find healing, find themselves in the same situation with a different person. The individual ultimately expects abuse as a norm (2024, p. 125-126). Hence when approached or targeted, many abused are familiar with it. While they may seek to escape it or fear it, they do not respond as an un-abused person. Instead many either isolate, feel the re-traumatization, and become unwilling victims not understanding why or how to escape.
Compton also refers to emotional regulation disruptions. Like anyone with PTSD or trauma, unresolved trauma resides in the subconscious. It remains trapped in the emotional part of the brain, not properly filed within the intellectual part. The trauma is dis-fragmented and the horrible nature of the trauma continues to haunt a person. Hence when a person experiences a similar sound, or scent, or visual of the past trauma, the body responds emotionally without rationale into a fight, flight or freeze mode. This is a common state of hyperarousal that many with PTSD or trauma experience. The long term defensive mechanisms for this unhealed trauma results in isolation from other people, as well as numbing through alcohol or other drugs, as well as lashing out at others, Abusers target those who are isolated, friendless, or who are intoxicated or in need of drugs to numb their pain (2024, p. 127-128). in the mind of an abuser, an isolated individual has no-one for support and a drug user is far from reliable as a witness.
Finally, cognitive distortions can persist in the unhealed victim. Without counseling and cognitive therapies to correct incorrect perceptions of self, the abused develops an poor image of self and the value of one’s body. The very design of sexuality and its purpose can also be distorted. Victims reflect low self esteem, misuse of sex as a way to find instant gratification, or allow one’s body to be used by others. This can result in how a victim interacts with others, dresses, or expects to be touched or touches others (Compton, 2024, p. 128-129). These cognitive distortions, views of one’s body, or the misinformed nature of sex, open many unhealed victims to new abusers who can use these distortions to their advantage in luring the victim back into abuse.
Why Not Find Help?
It is easy as non-traumatized individuals to ask this question but if someone is injured through abuse or trauma, the whole self is injured. Until the whole self again finds healing, purpose and meaning and the issues of emotional, cognitive and bonds are corrected, then many never seek help or even report the initial abuse. In addition, those who seek help may feel intimidated, labeled, judged, or felt no-one will believe them.
Some may feel embarrassed over the abuse. During fight, flight or freeze, survivors make a choice in how to respond to the violence. Some individuals may fight, others may try to escape, or others my freeze in utter fear. We see this constantly in horror movies. As we shout at the television screen, for the person to fight back or run, we see some literally freeze. Maybe subconsciously an individual feels if they have a better chance of not fighting back and allowing the abuse to occur in hopes of survival as opposed to being kills in an attempted act of self defense. It is very hard to understand why some individuals fight, flight or freeze, but after traumatic events, the brain thinks back. There is survival guilt for some in war or shootings where the individual re-analyzes their reactions. This can lead to shame, or guilt or regret. Some in abuse, may feel they should have screamed, or fought back, while others lament the fact, that despite the abuse, in some cases, of sex, part of the physical engagement was pleasurable. This is especially true in the case of men who find themselves raped by women abusers. Others who are raped or molested may feel like a “whore” or if a man is assaulted by a man, feel as if their sexuality is now questioned and feel ashamed about being labeled a sexuality that they are not (Compton, 2024, p. 130-131).
Others may feel no-one will believe them and in some cases, authorities do not always believe. Parents may doubt a story of their child about a pastor or coach, or a church member may dismiss a report about a priest, or a police detective may question the details of an abuse story, but when help is not given, re-victimization can occur. One thing to remember, victims of severe trauma have fragmented memories. The brain is protecting the person from the trauma by fogging many of the details. Since the trauma is not properly filed and stored in the intellectual pre-frontal cortex of the brain, the emotional centers of the brain collect the trauma and revisit it through affective disturbances that involve similar sounds, sights, or scents. A similar cologne of an abuser can send a victim into a flash back of the horrible abuse, or a the backfire of a car can send a military veteran back to a war scene. Hence triggers play a key role, as well as intrusive memories, in taking the victim back to the initial trauma, while in regular conscious states, the victim may not recount completely every detail regarding the abuse. The details haunt, but the general story remains the same. This type of lack of detail can sometimes make others doubt a survivor/victim, but a trained professional should see the overwhelming evidence of trauma induced PTSD that reflects far greater evidence of abuse than mere details (Compton, 2024, p. 131-132)
When reporting never occurs, or when authorities do not believe victims, re-victimization usually occurs later in life. It is hence important to prevent future re-victimization to believe the abused. Counselors, pastors, and even friends need to believe and encourage disclosure and when legally required report the incidents to protect the victim. As a safeguarder and protector, one has the unique opportunity to help reconnect to a injured person and help them again find wholeness, meaning and justice (Compton, 2024, p. 133).
Conclusion
It is truly sad that anyone is a victim of any type of abuse in this world. It is especially horrific that individuals who find no healing continue to find themselves in a cycle of abuse at the hands of predators and abusers. It is important for behavioral healthcare and health providers, as well as pastoral caregivers, families and friends to recognize the signs the abuse, as well as to understand those who are potential victims for possible future abuse. This involves utilization of trauma informed care practices that encourage disclosure through safe environments, as well as transparency, empathy, trust, and the utilization of therapeutic skills to help the person again find healing and meaning.
Please also review AIHCP’s Trauma Informed Care Program as well as its many Behavioral Health Certifications
Additional Blogs
Authority and Abuse- Click here
Sexual Assault and Abuse- Click here
Resource
Compton, L & Patterson, T (2024). “Skills for Safeguarding: A Guide to Preventing Abuse and Fostering Healing in the Church”. Academic
Additional Resources
Marie, S. (2024). “Abuse Survivors Can Be Revictimized — Here’s What You Should Know”. Healthline. Access here
Gillette, H. (2022). “Can Family Members Revictimize Sexual Abuse Survivors?”. PsychCentral. Access here
Patrick, W. (2022), “Why Some Sexual Assault Victims Are Revictimized”. Psychology Today. Access here
Pittenger, S. et al. (2019). “Predicting Sexual Revictimization in Childhood and Adolescence: A Longitudinal Examination Using Ecological Systems Theory”.
Child Maltreat . Author manuscript; available in PMC: 2019 May 1. PubMed. Access here
Trauma Informed Care: When Trauma Emerges During Counseling
Trauma Informed Care highlights the reality of trauma as a universal human experience. Whether deeply effected to the point of PTSD, long term effects or no effects at all, traumatic events do occur and leave an imprint on some individuals. Ultimately, the these events occur but it is our experience and how it effects ourselves that determine impairment later in life. Unfortunately, most traumatic cases, especially in abuse, never go reported and individuals live with unresolved trauma that manifests in many maladaptive ways later in life. TIC looks to uproot trauma when identifying various symptoms that point towards it possible existence. Hence, if one is counseling from a TIC perspective, then it is only natural that eventually trauma will re-emerge in a victim/survivor/client.
Obviously basic counseling and advanced counseling skills and techniques all play a key role in helping the individual discuss these difficult events in his/her life, but there are also particular skills key to addressing trauma that are essential. While TIC looks to search for trauma, trauma specific interventions are essential to help the person express and heal from the trauma. In addition, how the trauma is discussed and handled within the counseling room is equally key. In this blog, we will look at trauma, its sources, counselor reaction to the client, discussing trauma itself, and ways to better facilitate the discussions of trauma itself.
Please also review AIHCP’s Trauma Informed Care programs, as well as all of AIHCP’s Behavioral and Mental Health Programs in Grief Counseling, Crisis Intervention, Stress Management, Anger Management and Spiritual Counseling programs.
Trauma Lurks Below
We are well aware that the traumatic events are universal and 70 percent of the population will experience some type of trauma. Of course how the trauma affects the person has numerous subjective factors based upon the person and many surrounding aspects. Ellis points out that individuals in childhood have different levels of exposure to trauma based on their Adverse Childhood Experiences (2022). ACE refers to these adverse childhood experiences and categorizes them as actual events but also deeper seeded social issues that act as roots to the trauma tree and its many branches and fruits. Adverse Community Environments or roots of the problem include multiple negative social issues such as poverty, discrimination, community disruption, lack of economic mobility and opportunity, poor housing and frequent exposure to social violence. These horrible things manifest into various possible traumatic experiences for individuals that will shape them for the rest of their lives. This includes issues that the child might experience at a young age such as maternal depression, emotional, physical and sexual abuse, substance abuse, domestic violence, homelessness, incarceration of self or family members, divorces, physical and emotional neglect and exposure to mental illness (Ellis, 2022).
In turn, later in adolescence and life, fruits of these abuses and traumas will emerge. Behaviors that include drug use, alcoholism, smoking, lack of physical activity and lack of work ethic. In addition, these fruits can manifest in severe obesity, diabetes, depression, suicide attempts, STDs, heart disease, cancer, stroke and various injuries. TIC looks to identify these warning signs and fruits of ACE and acknowledges that not every one’s life was calm, peaceful and loving. This is not to say even the most loving home can face loss and trauma or violent crime, but it does awaken us as a while that people are just much nurture as they are nature in what they become and how their behaviors exhibit themselves. This is why as counselors, we must show empathy even to undesired behaviors. We are not dismissing choice, or condoning bad behaviors or life styles or even later criminal actions, but we are putting a spot light on a great systematic breakdown in society as a whole and how trauma can alter and turn so many people into persons they would never have been. The role of a counselor when facing emerging trauma in counseling is to help the person find peace with the past, cope in the present and find hope in the future.
Shattered but Not Broken
I believe that despite horrible trauma, one can be shattered, but it does not mean one has to be permanently broken. One will always have the scars from that trauma, one will have a far different life due to it as well, but that does not mean it breaks the person. While some may become overwhelmed and lose themselves or become the evil itself that destroyed them, it does not have to be that way.
Trauma can be like the story of the comic hero Batman, who as a child witnessed the murder of his parents, only to turn that trauma and pain into a life long crusade against crime. While a fictional character, I think still, if we look at the story of young Bruce Wayne and his traumatic experience, we can take a lesson from it and see how when trauma is properly processed, while life altering, it can bring out resiliency and growth, and an ability to find meaning.
Outside TIC mindsets, most trauma survivors who are shattered are afraid to bring up the past in counseling and rarely spontaneously disclose their trauma. (Sweeney. A, 2018). It is hence important to understand how to help heal the broken through discussion of trauma and how to facilitate healing. Cochran points out that all human beings are in a state of “becoming” We are constantly changing whether into a traumatic event or out of it, we are never the same but learning how to adjust. Who we are today are not who we were in the past but we are constantly in flux in our experiences and how we interpret them (2021, p. 8). All individuals look however to meet a certain self actualization of self. These self actualizations when molded in a healthy and loving trauma free environment possess healthy concepts of self image and self worth. Trauma and abuse can destroy these images (Cochran, 2021, p. 9-15). Cochran uses the oak tree as an example of self actualization. While the mighty oak is the final concept of what we see as the fullest potential of an acorn, or small sapling, sometimes, those who are victims of abuse or trauma are unable to fulfill their initial abilities or design. Like a young tree that was struck by lightening or partially uprooted, the ideal self actualization has been altered. Unlike a tree though, human beings have far better abilities to recreate image and self actualization. Although shattered, altered and changed, human beings through guidance and support can still grow and meet new goals and fulfill new self actualizations, albeit shatter, but not broken (Cochran, 2021, p. 11-12).
Hence, Cochran points out that as a person develops, like a tree, one can develop and grow without interruption, while others trees may experience difficult times of drought, poor soil, damage, or broken limbs. Each life experience is different and through trauma, individuals develop different self concepts of what is regular or normal as well as what to expect of oneself. Trauma hence can be very damaging. It is important in TIC to find this trauma and to help the shattered find wholeness again and a new way to exist with the past. When trauma is discovered in counseling or finally disclosed, it is hence important to know how to cultivate the discussion and navigate the difficult discussions.
The Calm in the Storm: Counselor Qualities in Trauma Informed Care
Counselors in general need to display certain qualities with their clients but this is especially true in the case of trauma victims or trauma survivors. Karl Rogers approached all counseling in a very client based approach that emphasized complete emotional support via empathy, genuineness and unconditional positive regard. These three qualities not only create a safe environment for disclosure but also helped create a sense of trust between counselor and victim that facilitated healing. Robin Gobbel, LMSW, emphasizes the importance of safety and the necessity of “felt safety” within between the counselor and the victim or survivor or client. Many individuals who are victims of trauma feel chronic “danger, danger” feelings. Due to PTSD, certain triggers can alert the brain to the dangers that are not truly present. The lack of the prefrontal cortex to dismiss the false alarm is not present in trauma survivors. Hence the scent of a cologne similar to a molester, or a car backfiring in a public street can send a trauma survivor into a flight, fright or freeze sense. Helping a person feel safe internally is hence key. In addition to internal issues, “felt safety” also applies to the counseling room itself. In previous blogs, we discussed the importance of agencies creating a environment that promotes a safe feeling for the individual to disclose and discuss the abuse or trauma. They must feel private, secure and free of threat, free of retribution, or even judgement. Physical environment can be helpful in this, but it also must be accompanied with the counselor’s ability to implement basic counseling skills, via word use, tone, body language and facial expressions.
This is all best implemented through empathetic listening, genuine interest and unconditional positive regard. Empathetic listening is not judgmental but it allows oneself to not feel what one thinks another should feel, but attempts to understand and share what one is feeling and why. Cochran describes empathy as feeling with the client (2021, p. 79). Empathy can be emitted by sharing the same emotions and words that describe those emotions with the client. Empathy does not require one agreeing with the client, their beliefs, choices or actions, but it does involve walking with the client and attempting to understand all the things that make him/her feel the way he/she does.
In addition to empathy, Karl Rogers emphasized the importance of being genuine. Rogers pointed out that the therapist is being him/herself without professional facade of being all knowing or merely a person with letters behind his/her name. Rogers continued that the counselor needs to be genuine in the feelings of the moment and aware of those moments where feelings are expressed. Ultimately, the therapist becomes transparent and down to earth with the client without any ulterior motives but the healing of the client. This helps the client see that the therapist is truly there to help and more willing to open and disclose issues (Cochran, 2021, p. 132). Ultimately, Cochran points out that all counselors if they seek to be genuine need to know oneself and express oneself.
Tying together empathy and genuineness is the key Rogerian concept of Unconditional Positive Regard for a client. This concept is a cornerstone for counseling. It is also sometimes a difficult concept. It does not mean that the counselor again always agrees with beliefs, choices, or actions of a client, but it does entail an unwavering support for the client/victim/survivor that looks not for an agenda or conditional response but a gentle guidance of self development that does not demand but instead listens, nods and recommends without condition. Studies have shown that when conditions are tied to change, change becomes far more difficult. Unconditional Positive Regard retains the autonomy of the client to learn how to change on their own terms.
Rogers listed warmth, acceptance and prizing as three key elements of UPR. Warmth represents the care of the client and genuine empathy. It is the fertile soil that produces a an atmosphere of trust and disclosure. Acceptance is the ability of the counselor without bias to accept the immediate emotions of a person in counseling-whether illogical, angry, hateful, confused or resenting (Cochran, 2021, p. 103). In trauma, many emotions that are sputtered out are helpful in healing. If they are diagnosed, judged or refuted, then this can stunt disclosure. Trauma victims or survivors need a place to express their feelings anytime and anyway without judgement. Acceptance allows the person to express without regret. Many times, the emotions displayed can help the counselor see clues to past incidents, or even help understand the current emotional state of the person. Cochran points out that when a person is allowed to swear, scream, express, or seem illogical without reproach, many times, they will re-evaluate their own reactions in a healthy way (2021, p. 103). Finally, prizing is a concept of UPR that emphasizes the person as a treasure and someone special who is unique and special. Prizing is not an overstatement or infatuation but is a sensitive way of caring and a genuine way of expressing to the client that he/she matters (Cochran, 2021. p. 104). Prizing despite the pain and downfalls, also looks to lift the person up by highlighting the strengths of the person and helps encourage the person to healing and change. Rogers believed that UPR helps clients discover who they truly are. He believed that self-acceptance leads to real change. Through full expression of the spectrum of emotions, one can in a safe environment see the counselor acceptance and hence accept themselves in expressing issues and trauma (Cochran, 2021, p.109-110).
We cannot put agendas, our own judgements, moral beliefs, or expected outcomes upon clients. Some clients in trauma need certain environments to feel safe to heal, or they need to feel that their story has no conditions that must be met. When counselors put agendas on the table, expect outcomes, or think they know better, then their regard becomes conditioned which is detrimental to disclosure and healing (Cochran, 2021, p. 114-116). Many times, well trained analytic minded counselors have a difficult time displaying pragmatic solutions or just letting go of an agenda or idea and instead just listening and being present. Hard to like clients, bad people in the prison system, moral differences, and biased initial thoughts can all play negative roles in how we show unconditional positive regard for a client (Cochran, 2021, p119-121). It is hence important to see each client, no matter who, as a person that is there to be helped and hopefully understood. This does not mean suggestions are guidance are not given, but it does mean, an acknowledgement of the client’s current state and an attempt to understand why. The biggest question should not be “WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU” but instead “WHAT HAPPNED TO YOU” (Sweeney, A. 2018).
Discussing the Trauma
The concept of trauma can be difficult to discuss. Many clients feel embarrassed, or fear judgement or retaliation if they speak. Others may feel weak if they express traumatic injuries. Others may have in the past attempted to tell but where quickly dismissed. Others may have been difficult ways expressing verbally abuse due to PTSD. Many trauma survivors have a difficult time chronologically making sense of the story but vivid scents, sights, or touches can open the emotional part of the brain. Hence those who experience trauma in many cases fear labeling when discussing trauma (Sweeney, A. 2018).
Questions about trauma hence need to be done in a safe environment with genuineness and empathy and with a sensitivity about the story. Questions about trauma are usually better during assessment than when in actual crisis. They can be asked within the general psychosocial history of the client to avoid a feeling of purposeful probing. In addition, it is important to preface trauma with a normalizing comment that does not make the person feel like the exception to the rule. The person should feel completely free not to disclose or discuss details that upset him/her (Sweeney, A, 2018).
Sweeney recommends that for those who disclose or are tentative about disclosure that it is s good thing to disclose and that the person is completely safe from the person, judgement, or labeling. If the person does not wish, details should not be dissected from the story. In addition, it is sometimes helpful to help the person slowly enter into the traumatic story by first discussing the initial part of the day prior and then the after feelings before diving deep into the intensity of the story. The counselor should be aware of any changes in the person’s triggers and reactions to re-telling the story. The counselor should discuss if this story has ever been told before and if so, how the other party reacted to the story, as well as how the past trauma affects their current life, especially if maladaptive coping is taking place. When trauma is disclosed, particular trauma specific treatments may be need employed to help healing. In some cases, the counselor or social worker is clinical and can supply those services, but if not, and non-clinical or pastoral in nature, the counselor will need to refer the person to an appropriately licensed, trained and trusted colleague. Finally, following any disclosure, it is critical to check on the person’s emotional state to avoid re-traumatizing the person. This is important because individuals could leave the session feeling less safe and return to maladaptive coping later in the day or even worse, suicidal ideation or attempts. Follow up is key and consistent monitoring. (Sweeney, 2018).
One important note, if the trauma and abuse is current, counselors and social workers, and certain clergy pending on the nature of disclosure and state laws, except within the seal of Catholic/Orthodox confession, have the legal obligation to report abuse.
Facilitating Better Trauma Response
To respond better to the needs of those in trauma due to abuse, it is key to better facilitate responses to individuals who are dealing with past or present trauma, whether in the counseling room, or short term crisis facilities. It is even crucial to better respond to those in trauma who are in longer term facilities, or even correctional facilities.
A team that responds to victims of trauma with no judgement and empathy is key but this involves dismissing older notions. Notions that dismiss holistic biopsychosocial models for mental distress and only highlight biomedical focus can play a role in impeding healing. Instead of merely prescribing a medication and taking a pill, alternative practices need to be supplementing with many individuals. In addition, agencies need better exposure to social , urban, cultural and historical traumas that underline the person’s makeup. They also need to dismiss notions that treatment involves assessment and conditional parameters for healing that involves an imbalance of power. In these cases, the caregivers have power over the person, make the decisions, and determine the outcomes. In many cases, these same types of lack of control for the abused can cause re-traumatization (Sweeney, 2018). For instance, not granting a person a say in what they do or take, or unnecessarily constraining an individual can all be triggers to the original abuse.
Ultimately, many agencies and facilities do not have a good trauma informed care plan, as we discussed in other blogs. In addition, they are underfunded, staff is stressed and morale may be low and the facility may staff shortages. This leads to stressed, under trained, and confused lower staff members in dealing with patients. In addition, many of the higher staff in counseling are themselves facing burnout, overwhelmed with paperwork or dealing with inconsistent policies or social networking that never follows through (Sweeney, 2018). We can hence see the many challenges that facilities and agencies face but the goal and mission must still remain the same to overcome these pitfalls and introduce real healing strategies for individuals experiencing crisis, trauma and abuse.
Conclusion
When someone discloses trauma or abuse, it is a big moment in that person’s life. Each person with their abuse story is different. Some have other underlying issues. Some may have been mocked or not believed, while others may be maladaptively coping. It is imperative to reach back to each person and give them the security and dignity he/she deserves in disclosing the story. The counselor must be empathetic, genuine and provide as Rogers calls it, Unconditional Positive Regard. Older methods of understanding trauma and assessment and conditional plans need dismissed the counselor needs to help the person validate emotions and find constructive ways to heal. The counselor must be well versed in how to discuss trauma related issues and be careful not only of their own burnout but also in re-traumatizing the client. Facilities also need to reassess their own mission and policies in helping those in abuse find better solutions and healing.
Please also review AIHCP’s Behavioral Health Certifications, especially in Grief Counseling, Crisis Intervention and Trauma Informed Care
Additional Blogs
Attending Skills: Click here
Responding Skills: Click here
Trauma Informed Care: Click here
Resources
Cochran, J & Cochran, N. (2021). “The Heart of Counseling: Practical Counseling Skills Through Therapeutic Relationships” 3rd Ed. Routledge
Sweeny, A, et al. (2018). “A Paradigm Shift: Relationships in Trauma-Informed Mental Health Services” Cambridge University Press
Additional Resources
“Childhood Trauma & ACES”. Cleveland Clinic. Access here
Olenick, C. (2025). “Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs): Examples and Effects”. WebMD. Access here
“The Challenge of Disclosing Your Abuse”. Saprea. Access here
Schuckman, A. (2024). “Disclosing Abuse: How to Show Support and Break Stigmas”. Nationwide Children’s. Access here
Engel, B. (2019). “Helping Adult Survivors of Child Sexual Abuse to Disclose #4”. Psychology Today. Access here
Behavioral Health Certifications: Psychology and the Fear of Monsters
I. Introduction
The fear of monsters or TERAPHOBIA has permeated human culture throughout history, serving as a compelling lens through which to examine psychological anxieties and societal norms. Such fears often reflect deeper concerns, including the unknown, loss of control, and existential dread, which can manifest in various forms, from folklore to modern horror media. This essay seeks to explore the psychological underpinnings of these fears, particularly how monstrous figures symbolize our innermost anxieties. By drawing parallels between literary representations and psychological theories, we uncover the ways in which these fears can illuminate our understanding of the human condition. The phenomenon of monsters in narratives can be likened to the prophetic literature found in the Hebrew Bible, where fear is intimately tied to the moral and ethical discourse of society, drawing connections that reveal the nuanced relationship between fear, representation, and individual experience (Uhlenbruch F et al., 2016). In a similar vein, the analysis of art and its interpretations during wartime highlights the subjective nature of fear and memory, emphasizing that understanding these emotions is crucial for comprehending the broader context of human experience (Waters et al., 2017).
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A. Definition of monsters in psychological context
In the psychological context, monsters often serve as metaphors for deep-seated fears and anxieties that individuals grapple with, illustrating the complex interplay between perception and reality. These entities may embody societal fears or personal traumas, which can manifest through various psychological pathways as described by Rachman’s theory of fear acquisition. This theory posits that fears can emerge through direct conditioning, vicarious learning, or through the transmission of information, revealing how external stimuli can shape an individuals understanding of monstrosity (Ajzen et al., 2001). Moreover, the societal stigmatization of certain behaviors and conditions contributes to the crafting of monsters within the psyche, emphasizing the harmful consequences of metaphorical dehumanization, as seen in discussions surrounding disability. This phenomenon not only reinforces boundaries of normality but also reflects how such narratives can lead to destructive social attitudes and actions, like the troubling concept of ‘mercy killing’ in response to perceived monstrosity (Waltz et al., 2008).
B. Overview of fear as a psychological phenomenon
Fear, as a psychological phenomenon, serves a critical role in human cognition and behavior, especially in the context of monstrous narratives. Traditionally regarded as an adaptive response, fear prepares individuals to confront perceived threats—whether real or imagined. This response is particularly evident in horror genres, where monsters symbolize deeper societal anxieties and moral dilemmas, thereby allowing audiences to explore their fears in a controlled environment. Such interaction can evoke feelings of pleasure and discomfort simultaneously, reflecting the complex interplay between fear and fascination. For instance, the interplay of sex and horror has been noted to elicit competing responses, resulting in both attraction and revulsion from viewers, suggesting that fear may not only be a mere reaction to threats but also a complex emotional experience that challenges societal norms, as discussed in (Jones et al., 2017). Ultimately, understanding fears role assists in unpacking the psychological motives behind our fascination with monsters, revealing its roots in cultural narratives and individual psychologies, as highlighted in (Burton et al., 2019).
C. Importance of studying fear of monsters in psychology
The exploration of fear, particularly the fear of monsters, serves as a profound means of understanding psychological development and societal values. Monsters often symbolize our deepest anxieties, embodying fears of the unknown or unresolved trauma. By studying these fears, psychologists can unveil underlying emotional and cognitive processes that shape human behavior. This analysis can also encourage discussions about the nature of good and evil, paralleling Tolkiens exploration of beauty and despair in his narratives, which reveals how joy is often intertwined with sorrow and loss (Philpott et al., 2016). Furthermore, addressing the fear of monsters allows for a critical examination of societal beliefs, reflecting our collective fears and the ways these fears manifest in cultural narratives. This understanding is crucial for developing therapeutic interventions, as mitigating fear can ultimately lead to healthier coping mechanisms and a better comprehension of individual and shared human experiences (A Lathrop et al., 2015).
While fear can serve a protective device, teraphobia can cause unnecessary anxiety due to the irrational fear. It can cause clinging in children, avoidance and cripple people from living life. This can disrupt sleep and cause other emotional issues. It can also cause nightmares and night terrors as well as create unhealthy ritualistic behaviors to face these fears.
II. Historical Perspectives on Monsters
The historical perspectives on monsters reveal a profound interplay between cultural narratives and psychological fears, reflecting societal anxieties that transcend time. In literature and mythology, monsters have often represented societal fears, embodying the unknown or the other in various forms. As these depictions evolved, they became reflections of the moral and cultural sentiments of their respective eras, revealing underlying societal concerns, such as justice and transgression. The work of positivist criminology illustrates this connection, positing that monsters—like criminal behavior—cannot be purely understood through scientific frameworks devoid of cultural context; they are instead shaped by the irrational tropes and images that society generates (Burton et al., 2019). Furthermore, the examination of prophetic literature in the Hebrew Bible highlights how monsters also symbolize warnings or prophetic truths, demonstrating their role in both societal critique and psychological exploration (Uhlenbruch F et al., 2016). Thus, the historical discourse on monsters serves as a window into the evolving fears and cultural dynamics of humanity.
A. Evolution of monster myths across cultures
The evolution of monster myths across cultures reflects deep-seated psychological fears that transcend geographical and temporal boundaries. Historically, monsters have served as embodiments of societal anxieties, from the grotesque beings of mythological narratives to contemporary representations in popular media. These creatures often symbolize the unknown, encapsulating fears related to mortality, chaos, and the supernatural. As detailed in the exploration of cognitive dissonance, individuals grapple with conflicting beliefs about empirical knowledge and transcendent forces, leading to a persistent discomfort that fuels the creation and adaptation of monster myths (Montell et al., 2001). Furthermore, examining prophetic literature through the lens of science fiction reveals how modern cultures reinterpret ancient fears, linking both the imaginative and empirical realms (Uhlenbruch F et al., 2016). This cyclical process of myth creation not only reflects cultural values but also offers insights into the psychological mechanisms that drive humanitys enduring fascination with the monstrous.
Whether it is Dracula, loch ness, or bigfoot, monster stories evolve across cultures. Some monster myths surprisingly share similarities across cultures to point towards a common consciousness of human fear that is universal.
B. Psychological interpretations of historical monsters
The phenomenon of historical monsters often serves as a lens through which we can explore societal fears and psychological interpretations. These figures, whether real or mythologized, reflect the cultural anxieties and moral uncertainties of their times. For instance, the grotesque behaviors attributed to notorious figures not only illustrate individual psychopathy but also reveal broader societal concerns about deviance and order. The study of these monsters allows us to analyze the inherent contradictions in criminological thought; as noted, “positivist criminology confronts an inherent contradiction in purporting to develop a purely scientific account of phenomena that are defined by the moral and cultural sentiments of a society” (Burton et al., 2019). Furthermore, examining these figures provides insights into the collective psyche, suggesting that their “marginality” and the fear they evoke can illuminate deeper truths about a societys self-image and moral landscape (Chin et al., 2011). Thus, historical monsters are integral to understanding both psychological trauma and cultural identity.
C. The role of folklore in shaping fear of monsters
Folklore serves as a vital cultural construct, profoundly shaping human perceptions of fear, particularly in the context of monsters. It embodies collective anxieties and societal fears, transforming them into recognizable narratives that both illustrate and amplify the psychological terror associated with the unknown. For instance, the concept of Thin Places in Celtic mythology reflects an enduring belief in liminal spaces where the veil between the ordinary and the supernatural becomes tenuous, creating an atmosphere ripe for the emergence of fearful entities (Healy et al., 2014). Similarly, during the tumultuous period of World War II, the Italian populaces collective fear gave rise to the mysterious figure of Pippo, a spectral aircraft that unites their anxieties about warfare and the unseen dangers lurking above them (Perry et al., 2003). These examples illustrate how folklore not only reflects but actively constructs a societal framework for understanding and contextualizing fear, particularly in the manifestation of monstrous figures.
Many stories of monsters also delve into deeper human lessons about humanity, corruption and also protecting the self from that corruption. Monsters serve as a fear device to keep us away from forbidden things that can corrupt or hurt us. The stories of not entering the forest at night in both European and American folklore all teach of the inherent dangers that exist in the woods at night. Teaching children to lock the door, or not to wander off, are all important lessons to protect but through that use of fear to protect, phobias can later develop that create irrational fears of being alone or walking in the woods.
I think many religious traditions have their teachings as well on evil. While many do not delve as far as the mythos of monsters and folkore surrounding monsters, many monster architypes develop from religious concepts based off of demonic. For many, the demonic is fearful and real enough to add any other dimension of monster in the world. For this reason, while closely connected, demons need out of respect to religious traditions to be categorized differently. While beliefs are beliefs and not up to empiric observation, the concept of demons surrounds religious dogma, while folklore delves more into the imagination. This is not to say, demon fear and craze can erupt from ultra religious minds and create pathology but the dogmatic belief of demons within the creeds of the the faiths remains something different in extreme than monster fears but at the same time, something open to possible extremism. I think this needs to be understood when looking at the human experience and demonology.
III. Psychological Theories of Fear
An understanding of psychological theories of fear provides significant insights into the anxiety surrounding monsters, both real and fantastical. Rachmans theory of fear acquisition posits that fears can emerge through direct conditioning, vicarious learning, and information processing; notably, childhood experiences with frightening narratives can shape perceptions of monsters ((Ajzen et al., 2001)). For instance, exposure to stories about monsters can foster fear-related beliefs, demonstrating how verbal information influences emotional responses. This interplay is particularly evident in children, whose fear may be heightened based on the source of the information, such as whether it comes from a trusted adult or peer ((Ajzen et al., 2001)). Furthermore, the broader implications of fear reveal how cultural narratives surrounding monstrosity draw on psychological principles, blending empirical research with societal beliefs. This intersection suggests that psychological frameworks not only explain individual fears but also highlight the cultural constructs that shape our collective understanding of monstrosity ().
A. Theories of fear development in childhood
Theories of fear development in childhood offer insights into why children often harbor irrational fears, particularly regarding monsters. Rachmans theory of fear acquisition posits that these fears can develop through several pathways, including direct conditioning, vicarious learning, and information or instruction, suggesting a multifaceted origin for phobias that include the fear of fantastical creatures (Ajzen et al., 2001). Moreover, the influence of information, particularly verbal cues from significant adults, can substantially alter a childs fear-related beliefs. For instance, children exposed to narratives about monsters from trusted figures demonstrated increased fear perceptions, highlighting the power of verbal instruction in shaping their understanding and responses to the unknown (Ajzen et al., 2001). Additionally, the concept of strangeness further elucidates the conditions under which fears arise; as children encounter unfamiliar stimuli that disrupt their sense of control, they often react with alarm, thus perpetuating their fear of such entities .
Ultimately, how many children fear the dark, the monster in the closet or under the bed. These fears have roots in observation, digestion of social content, and stories handed down, whether for the protection of a child to avoid something, or out of pure superstition. Yet these stories can cause intense anxiety in children, sleep disturbances, night terrors, fears of the dark, avoidance of certain rooms, as well as clinging to parents. Children with these fears need comforted to avoid more trauma, as well as reassurances and awards for being brave and facing fears.
When teraphobia becomes crippling then serious mental help is needed. Some individuals rooted in deep superstition, or certain belief can become terrified beyond the rituals of protection but also negatively affected in their daily activities or stricken with a deep sense of fear. Others may face psychosis. Many due to this can face deep trauma that is unneeded but still nevertheless present.
B. The impact of media on fear perception
The media definitely has a big impact on how scared people get, especially when it comes to “monsters”—whether we’re talking about real creatures or just scary ideas. You can see this in the way the news spreads really dramatic stories. For instance, when there’s a lot of coverage of something rare, like kids getting abducted, it can cause a huge panic, even if the actual danger isn’t as high as people think. That whole “stranger danger” idea is a good example. It’s often based on emotional stories and a general sense of moral panic pushed by the media, which can make it hard to have a reasonable conversation about how to keep kids safe (Wodda et al., 2018). Plus, the way people with disabilities are often talked about—using metaphors that make them seem weak or broken—keeps fear alive. It reinforces stereotypes, makes differences seem like problems, and ultimately, dehumanizes entire groups of people (Waltz et al., 2008). So, the things we see in the media not only make society more afraid but also make it harder to understand what the real risks are. What we really need are stories that are more thoughtful and show the world as it is, instead of just trying to shock us.
C. Cognitive-behavioral approaches to overcoming fear
Cognitive-behavioral methods offer solid strategies for tackling irrational fears, like a fear of monsters, using systematic intervention. A key piece of this is cognitive restructuring. Essentially, this involves spotting and then challenging distorted beliefs about threats we think we see. Research points to how the information kids get really matters; it can reshape those fear-based beliefs. Verbal narratives, studies show, can profoundly change how children view scary things, like monsters, more so than visual aids (Ajzen et al., 2001). Also, it’s helpful to understand how early anxiety and what’s happening at home plays into all this. This can make treatment better. Addressing, say, maternal anxiety and temperament becomes pretty vital for prevention (Briggs-Gowan et al., 2010). By mixing cognitive restructuring with exposure therapy—gradually facing fears in a safe way—people can build resilience and dial down the emotional pain these long-held phobias cause.
Counselors can help individuals identify irrational fears, as any phobias, and cognitively approach the reality behind it. It is important to validate the emotions behind the fears but to help the person recognize the irrationality behind them intellectually. In addition, counselors can help individuals who may have phobia induced trauma and face these fears through controlled exposure of those fears over a modified period of time. Meditation and breathing to help calm anyone with unneeded anxiety are also excellent ways to help individuals face phobias and trauma itself. Many other coping skills can be utilized as well that best help the person. Finally, positive reinforcement is key in helping progress.
Ultimately it comes to cognitive recognition of the irrational nature of the fear, learning to face the fear through exposure and utilizing coping strategies to face those fears.
IV. The Role of Monsters in Modern Society
Monsters, those figures of dread, have always been crucial cultural icons. They embody our deepest anxieties, and their place in today’s world really mirrors how complex our minds are. Theories about how we learn to fear things, like Rachman’s pathways theory, shows us that our fears aren’t just there; they’re grown through what we experience ourselves, what we see others go through, and even what we hear about, especially when we’re kids (Ajzen et al., 2001). You see, through the stories we take in from media, monsters tend to become these figures that represent bigger issues in our society. They sort of act like a lens, helping us deal with what makes us uneasy. This dance between our culture and our fears makes you wonder if just cold, hard science can really explain why we do what we do and how we feel, which is pretty evident when you look at how criminology has changed over time (Burton et al., 2019). As the monsters we see in stories today evolve, they give us a peek into what we’re all afraid of. It allows us to have conversations about right and wrong, the rules of society, and those parts of us that just don’t make sense. And that’s really why they continue to be relevant in understanding the human psyche of our world
A. Monsters as metaphors for societal fears
Monsters popping up in stories, you know, kind of show what a society’s afraid of, especially as those fears change. Take zombies, for example. They weren’t always about the end of the world type stuff, but now they’re like, a big symbol of our worries about everything falling apart and a general sense of “what’s the point?” Their historical backdrop, as some have pointed out, reveals how they echo worries about revolutions, gender roles, and even different political ideas, really capturing a wide range of societal troubles (Mendoza et al., 2016). Then, there’s the uncanny valley idea. That helps explain why things that are almost human, but not quite—like, well, zombies—freak us out so much (Mendoza et al.). It’s like a built-in survival thing, trying to keep us away from danger and sickness. It really just shows how our brains and what we’re afraid of are all tangled up together in our culture. So, these monsters are more than just fun to watch; they give us a peek into what society’s worried about and what’s going on in our collective minds, generally speaking.
B. The influence of horror films and literature on fear
Horror films and literature, in their vastness, have significantly molded how society perceives fear, especially the unease we feel about monsters—both the real ones and those we conjure in our minds. These narratives, frequently combining psychological tension with vividly descriptive scenes, manage to reach deep into our most basic fears, letting us face the unknown from a secure vantage point. It’s a portrayal of monsters, frightening yet strangely captivating, that seems to embody broader societal anxieties, in most cases. This sort of depiction encourages a distinctive look at what makes humans vulnerable (Uhlenbruch F et al., 2016). The way fantastical aspects mix with emotions we can all identify with does more than just entertain; it prompts us to think hard about what fear really is. Then there’s the effect of these genres on how we see authority figures, which offers further insight into the intricate dance between how things are shown and how audiences take them (Dagaz et al., 2011). Generally speaking, horror becomes a reflection of our deepest terrors, offering a mirror—and a lens—through which we examine the shadows that exist both inside and outside us.
I think some good examples as well include Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein” where we sometimes discover that the true monster is not the monster itself but who we are and what we can be. Finding the monster within and using the monsters as symbols of the worst mankind has to offer sometimes is a way to express evil. As human beings, we all fear evil and our deepest worst side. Again, if we look at the Robert Stevenon’s classic “Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde” we see the motif and fear of the monster inside of all of us.
In addition, we see this darker and evil side of humanity in the many zombie movies and series that show the corruption of humanity. This same motif is found in the folklore of vampires and the corruption of humanity.
C. The therapeutic use of monsters in psychology
Monsters, frequently thought of as just products of our minds, can actually be quite helpful in therapy. They act as stand-ins, in a way, for what we’re afraid of and the battles we fight inside ourselves. Psychology suggests that picturing our problems as monsters can assist individuals in dealing with doubt and difficulty. The idea is to change these anxieties into something we can handle, not something that overwhelms us. This approach aligns with the idea of being in-between, as described in (Hay A et al., 2016), where people are working out who they are and how they see themselves. By thinking of emotional problems as monsters, people in therapy can sort of put those fears outside themselves, which then makes it easier to talk about them and start feeling better. What’s more, neurorhetoric shows us that these monster metaphors not only connect with our psychological challenges but also change how we react to fear, which makes the therapy even more effective (Jewel et al., 2017). Seen in this light, monsters become useful for building strength and helping people grow, as they navigate their psychological landscapes.
V. Conclusion
To summarize, when we consider the relationship between psychological ideas and that common fear of monsters, we can glean interesting points about why we behave the way we do and how we grow as people. This discussion looked at how fears of monsters, which frequently take hold in our childhood, turn up in different psychological situations, such as anxiety and specific phobias. Adolescent studies, for instance, illustrate the link between personality and phobic reactions, suggesting that these fears aren’t just random thoughts but are actually connected to our psychological nature (Alibrandi et al., 2019). Also, the history of these fears suggests that cultural stories have historically had an impact on how we view monstrosity, demonstrating a close connection between what society values and what an individual thinks (Burton et al., 2019). Grasping the fear of monsters is important for dealing with individual anxieties and for starting a wider conversation about how our culture influences our views of fear and safety.
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A. Summary of key points discussed
So, when we’re talking about psychology and why we’re scared of monsters, we’re really digging into a lot of different stuff that shows us both who we are as humans and the things society builds around us. We touched on a few big ideas, like how fear might have started as a way to keep us alive, making us wary of the unknown. This means that our basic need to survive is actually tied to how we understand monsters in our culture. Also, the way movies and books show us monsters really matters, since these stories don’t just entertain us—they also show us what we’re afraid of as a society, acting like a mirror reflecting our worries. Like, these stories often pull from what’s happened in the past, mixing together psychology with cultural stories. That sort of makes figuring out fear and its different forms a bit complicated. It’s worth pointing out that the connection between science and what scares us reveals some disagreements within scientific thinking, (Uhlenbruch F et al., 2016) and (Burton et al., 2019) pointed this out, proving that what we believe culturally has a huge impact on how we see monsters, and it’s not just about science.
B. Implications for understanding fear in psychology
Psychological studies of fear offer crucial insights into how we react to perceived dangers, like, say, monsters. Fear, as Rachman theorized, can arise from direct experience, learning by watching others, or simply from what we’re told. This indicates that the ways children form fear-based ideas about things like monsters are significantly affected by these routes (Ajzen et al., 2001). Interestingly, what adults tell children can change what they believe about fear, stressing how important context and social influences are in the psychology of fear (Ajzen et al., 2001). However, grasping fear isn’t just about individual experiences. It also sets the stage for understanding broader anxieties molded by stories we all share. Sometimes, these stories paint the unknown as something monstrous, impacting how society acts and feels about fear. Therefore, a thorough understanding of fear is beneficial in psychology from both theoretical and hands-on perspectives.
C. Future directions for research on fear of monsters
Future research on the fear of monsters really needs to embrace interdisciplinary work to help us truly understand this common fear. We need to look at more than just psychology; we have to consider the context, too. The context can really change how we perceive and feel fear toward monsters. For example, studying the “ecological” side of fear – think about how family or the community plays a role – could give us important clues about how fear changes. It’s also helpful to remember how studies have connected temperament with childhood anxiety; so, understanding how personality and the environment interact might point us toward new ways to help. (Briggs-Gowan et al., 2011). Plus, monster stories often have cultural roots. That said, comparing how different cultures react to monsters could broaden our understanding and improve therapeutic treatments (A Lathrop et al., 2015). Overall, when researchers use these different strategies, we will get a deeper, more detailed view of the fear of monsters and what it means.
Additional AIHCP Blogs
Alien Abduction Syndrome. Access here
Additional Resources
Fritscher, L. (2023). “Coping With Teraphobia or the Fear of Monsters”. Very Well Health. Access here
Pedersen, T. (2024). “Understanding Teraphobia (Fear of Monsters)” PsychCentral. Access here
What is Teraphobia: Unmasking the Fear of Monsters”. Psychology. Access here
“How To Manage Teraphobia In Children And Adults”. (2024). Better Help. Access here
Boundaries and Assertive Behavior in Mental Health
Boundaries are critical to a healthy relationship with anyone. When someone’s boundaries are constantly broken, this leads to discontent and resentment. Hence it is critical for emotional and mental health to preserve boundaries within relationships and to understand what one is willing and not willing to do. With boundaries comes the art of assertiveness and knowing how to express oneself and look out for one’s own needs without portraying oneself as selfish. In fact, boundaries and being assertive are not selfish things but important parts of self that define where one begin and end in regards to other individuals.
Please also review AIHCP’s mental and behavioral certifications and see if they meet your academic and professional goals.
BOUNDARIES
It is good to have boundaries and limits in one’s life. Many times these boundaries are tested, sometimes directly, other times without malicious intent. It is critical to assert oneself and pronounce boundaries and not feel guilty about it. It is good to have physical boundaries, emotional boundaries, time boundaries, sexual boundaries, material boundaries and intellectual boundaries. We have a right to physical space or the right not to want to be touched, we have a right to feel a certain way, or express an opinion or have that opinion not debated, we have a right to our time and how we choose to use it, we have a right to decide our own sexual desires and choices, we have a right to say no to the use of any of our material things and we have a right to not be solicited or debated on our philosophies and religious beliefs.
Sometimes boundaries can be difficult to set due to relationships and one’s own mental state. Many people feel if they set boundaries, they will lose a relationship or friend. Others may feel the constant need to people please, or put others over oneself equating a boundary to being selfish or mean. On the contrary, boundaries are healthy and need to be asserted in a healthy way to others and be respected by others. This is especially true when broken boundaries cause distress in one’s life. When one feels walked over or used, then it is important to break the cycle and invoke boundaries. Whether it is about lending money, or lending a car, or giving a helping hand when one cannot, broken boundaries lead to anxiety, resentment, stress and depression. When we constantly feel used, feel afraid, feel controlled, forced to adjust schedules, or change one’s values then it is time to reconsider boundaries in life. It is hence crucial to properly communicate boundaries to others and enforce those boundaries.
When setting a boundary, be sure prior to understand the goal and aim of setting it for oneself. Sometimes it helps to start small and gradually add new boundaries. In addition, it is important to clearly communicate boundaries. Many times, individuals are not clear and the boundaries become mixed. It is important to be open and clear about what and when one is imposing without being hostile or rude. Sometimes it is best to keep it simple than being over complex as to avoid over explanation that is not due to the other person.
When creating boundaries avoid being rude or hostile. Avoid accusative “you” statements. If with parents, or people of authority, maintain calmness and respect but remain strong in your boundary and conviction. When dealing with friends avoid ghosting and gossip to escape the problem but set the tone. With at work, set clear timetables and schedules that delineate work from home, as well as understand who to speak with in regards to problems or issues that arise. Show mutual respect for co-workers and their own boundaries in what they do.
Being Assertive in Life
Assertiveness is crucial to establishing and keeping boundaries. Assertiveness itself is merely the expression of one’s personal rights. It is not aggression, or rudeness but merely standing up for oneself and applying boundaries where necessary. It is a crucial skill in all social and professional interactions. It protects one’s needs, but also communicates clearly what is expected within a relationship.
Many mistaken conceptions see assertiveness as being selfish and putting oneself over others. Instead one has a right to feel a certain way, or receive mutual respect on views or philosophies. Individuals have a right to assert their own schedule and not always be flexible. You have a right to ask for more information, or ask for an explanation. You have a right not to take the advice of someone else. You have a right not to want to speak to other people or walk away. You do not need to have a good reason for feeling a certain way all the time, but you have a right to feel without explanation. You have a right not to make everyone’s problem your problem. Many individuals can be very generous, caring, empathetic, and yet maintain an assertiveness to one’s own boundaries and feelings. Self care, boundaries and being assertive are important aspects of mental and emotional health.
Hence being assertive is not being rude or aggressive or selfish, but neither is it being passive, or overlooked and trodden upon, instead it is a golden mean between these two extremes that illustrates healthy reactions to people without allowing oneself to fall victim to stress, anxiety, or abuse. When applying boundaries or promoting an assertive nature, one is clear to express one’s thoughts, feelings and wants in a direct fashion. There is no sugar coating or word play, but clear and concise language to how one thinks, feels and wants a particular situation. It is void of name calling, or “you” statements, blaming, or denials, or insults, but is a clear and assertive language that defines the situation clearly and expresses one’s stance. It is not over stepping other boundaries, or disrespecting others, but is a thorough expression of self to avoid future violations of one’s beliefs and space, as well as one’s ability to freely and correctly express needs, desires, thoughts, emotions and wants. Unfortunately, how many times, do we treat assertiveness as a sign of aggression? It is important to understand the differences between these and properly execute assertiveness when setting boundaries or for that matter when being assertive in relationships, interactions, work, or school.
Applying Assertive Behavior
Applying assertive behavior in life is not about being that person who always speaks out about every discomfort, or that obnoxious person who cannot be polite or quiet when things go wrong, but instead is knowing when something is truly wrong and someone needs to speak up due to something important. Most importantly, it is how one also conveys the assertive thought, emotion and need without being rude, overbearing, or trivial.
In application of assertive behavior, a person should not feel shy about expressing something that is wrong, but instead feel the necessity to stand up and speak when necessary or act if something needs done. There obviously is a fine line between aggression, rudeness and being a displeasing person, as opposed to a truly assertive person. Ultimately it comes down to one’s inner feelings and how certain situations present a clear and present need to say, discuss or act something. When applying, we have spoken about avoiding rude comments, blaming, name calling, and aggressive behavior, but instead truly speaking in a neutral language that does not look to challenge or upset but instead invoke one’s concern or need. In doing, so controlling emotions, politely listening, staying on track and acknowledging the other person is key. Being assertive is not a personal attack on someone else but is a tool in resolving an issue. Hence good communication skills are essential.
It is important to also maintain good physical posture when assertively speaking. Maintain eye contact, body posture, speak clearly, do not whine or consistently apologize, but speak the reality of the situation. Express if necessary with hands and facial expression to emphasize when needed. If one’s body language or voice quivers, then the message becomes lost.
While an assertive discussion is going on, be careful to avoid traps and manipulations of others who may try to still break your boundary or belittle your concern, thought, emotion, want or need. Instead of getting angry, maintain a calm and logical disposition. Many times, you may need to repeat the opening premise over and over throughout the conversation to keep the other person from deviating from the issue. Many times, individuals will deviate from the conversation by changing topics, insulting characters, playing self pity, threatening, denying, or blaming. In these instances it is important to know how to shift back to topic, defuse other’s emotions, acknowledge at times criticism of self, or partial criticisms, but ultimately, the key is to stay on track, express one’s needs and to know how to diffuse and shift back to topic without elevating the conversation into an argument. Sometimes, this involves preparing oneself prior to the conversation or even walking away if it does become heated.
Ultimately, the boundary or discussion about one’s thoughts, emotions or needs is important to you and cannot be laughed to the side or minimized. It is crucial to apply one’s needs and preserve one’s boundaries.
Conclusion
Boundaries are important for personal and emotional health. They are not selfish and rigid borders that make us selfish and rude to the needs of others but they protect ourselves from unneeded abuse of our skills, body, time and materials. Being assertive is a key ability to advocate for our rights. It is not aggression or being petty about things but truly being able to implement one’s thoughts, emotions and needs so that they are properly addressed. Asserting oneself is not about trampling upon others but defending oneself in a clear and concise manner.
Many individuals suffer in numerous aspects of life due to an inability to form boundaries and be assertive. Learning how one’s life is violated and becoming aware of the unhappy state is instrumental to overall mental health. One needs to be able to apply these skills to find peace and less stress and anxiety in one’s life
Please also review AIHCP’s Stress Management Consulting Program and see if it meets your academic and professional goals.
Additional Blog
Stop Worrying. Access here
Resource
Davis, M, et al. (2000). “The Relaxation and Stress Reduction Workbook (5th)”. New Harbinger Publications, Inc.
Additional Resources
Brooten-Brooks, M. (2025). “How to Set Boundaries for Better Relationships”. Very Well Health. Access here
“Map it out: Setting boundaries for your well-being” (2023). Mayo Clinic Health. Access here
Boundaries. Psychology Today. Access here
Earnshaw, E. (2023). “6 Types Of Boundaries You Deserve To Have (And How To Maintain Them)”. Mind Body Green. Access here
A Counseling Approach to Alien Abduction Syndrome
Alien abduction stories have moved more into main stream acceptance since the 1950s. No longer are many of these accounts swept under the rug as psychosis, or shared with bedtime stories of vampires or big foot sightings. Instead, many professionals have come to some conclusion that these experiences may be real. While there has been a shift in possible acceptance of these accounts due to more credible witnesses, discovery of possible inhabitable earth like planets, as well as official military releases and congressional investigations, there still exists plenty of mental health professionals who would deem the encounters as naturally explainable or misconstrued.
I think we need to have a possible open mind but until empirical data emerges, these stories and accounts are hard to prove as gospel proof of an event. Modern psychology, tends to drift away from un-explained phenomenon and seeks to find the rational explanations. In this blog, we will with an open mind look at Alien Abduction Syndrome, its manifestations, psychological and rational explanations, as well as possible counter arguments that show these events as plausible. We will also look most importantly look at the traumatic effects these events have on individuals as well as how to help them through it.
Please also review AIHCP’s many counseling based certifications for behavioral health care professionals. Please click here.
Reality or Psychosis?
When unexplained events occur, many times psychosis, repressed memories, past trauma, cognitive distortions, or natural explanations can explain the incident. However, many scientists as well as counselors understand that not everything in reality must be confined to the empirical code. With this creates a sharp divide between academic professionals who adhere to strict empiricism in practice or for those who feel the world is larger than observation via the senses.
Those who adhere to strict empiricism will rule out all stories of experiences of alien abduction, as well as demonic possession, while others may have an open mind to such experiences in human behavior. Strict empiricists would include aliens and demons in the same chapter with bigfoot, vampires and various monsters, while counselors who hold strong to spiritual ideals, are open to other options when mental illness or natural explanations are eliminated as possible solutions.
When to comes to the demonic, testimonies, unnatural events yet to be explained, and third party testimony has led many to believe that not all cases are psychosis or mental illness. The same has held true for accounts of UFO sightings and alien abductions with many events from credible sources. These resources have shifted possible UFO existence into the mainstream and something modern psychology cannot prove but may not be so quick to dismiss always as a psychosis event. I think while it is important to adhere to psychological standards, it is a very atheistic and proud view to dismiss everything as explainable to our current paradigm. While bias can play a strong motivator in evaluating cases of wanting to believe a story, sometimes, a story or testimony goes well pass any diagnosis of psychosis.
So I feel counselors need to be very cautious in dismissing a story told to them by a client without first showing a strong sensitivity to the trauma level of the person, as well as reviewing all naturally explainable ingredients of the story to see what fits and what does not fit from a psychological science based view. Some metaphysical experiences, as well as UFO or abduction stories are indeed psychosis, or misinterpreted, or naturally explainable, but sometimes, we cannot sweep under the rug every disturbing story we hear as merely explainable. So, there is a very mixed reaction to alien abduction within the scientific community and will continue to be so until empirical evidence can support a universal claim. Until then, it is important to shift through the variety of possible explanations within the realm of science and psychology for any demonic or alien type encounter–and only after an exhaustive search and diagnosis is completed, to come to a conclusion that the person’s story is reliable or not–and if reliable, then the even scarier attempt to understand what happened and how to help the person with this trauma.
It is important to remember that whether something occurred or did not occur, the trauma that manifested is real.
Psychological Explanations for Alien Abduction/UFO Sightings or Demonic Attack
Whether you believe in aliens or demons or UFO sightings from a spiritual belief or strong and reliable testimony, one must admit that not all alien or demonic occurrences are real. Many people have mental trauma, psychosis, distorted memories, or misconstrued what they saw. If every single sighting or metaphysical event was taken as truth, we would be doing our clients a disservice and playing into their own dangerous psychosis and not treating the malignant ailment causing these issues. So it is important to investigate the more probable causes of these manifestations but to review these in such a way as to be sensitive and not demeaning to the client expressing trauma and fear in the account of the story itself.
Cognitive perceptions and beliefs can distort reality in how one experiences an event or recalls and remembers the actual event itself. Memories themselves of the initial event can also be effected due to secondary events since the event, as well as possible recalling during hypnosis. During intense emotion, the recalled event sometimes can be different than the initial event or how it was initially experienced. Those who also experience PTSD can also exhibit flashbacks, vivid dreams, or dissociation from reality. It is no secret that many who report abduction also have a case history of childhood trauma and other events in their life.
Psychodynamic theories postulate that events or memories can stem from unconscious psychological projections due to universal human ideas regarding cultural fears and anxieties that manifest in these encounters. Karl Jung theorized that UFO sightings were a cultural manifestation of archetypal symbols that reside in humanity’s collective consciousness. In addition, during times of historical uncertainty, fear, anxiety and war, many of these symbols manifest in a person’s life. In addition, many of the feelings of fear, helplessness, and anxiety are closely related to repressed trauma. Trauma can resurface after digesting various stories about other events, as UFOs, and resurface in dreams, sleep paralysis, and other manifestations. According to Freud, many terrible events in life are repressed from the conscious mind that later resurface in this way through symbols of demons, monsters or aliens.
For the sane mind, many times, objects or events are simply misinterpreted due to lack of clear sight, weather conditions, or disorientation. Many things in reality turn out to be merely a shadow, or object in the room, or if in the sky, merely an object that is unidentified but completely explainable. Instead, due to media perceptions, bias, spiritual beliefs, the mind looks to fill in the gap of the story. Anomalous perception as a concept illustrates how the brain seeks to find answers and fill in gaps when the complete sensory picture evades it.
There are also numerous pathological issues that need to be addressed when someone recalls a story of alien abduction. First, is the experience delusional due to mental psychosis or Schizophrenia? Is the person on medication that causes psychosis? Are the hallucinations due to drugs, or mental pathology? Did the person exhibit sleep paralysis which is a dreamlike state where the person becomes conscious and unable to move but feels in the process traumatized, terrified and helpless? Many of these hallucinations or perceptions can be tied to media, imagination, as well as research on a topic.
Hence without dismissing immediately and upsetting a client, a thorough case history of the person is needed, as well as a diagnosis that eliminates cognitive distortions, psychodynamic manifestations, trauma, pathological issues, drugs and sociocultural influences that may reflect in these encounters.
The Alien Abduction Syndrome Story
The alien abduction story has similarities. This can both account to a universal disorder, that finds itself retold by study of previous accounts, or a general human psychodynamic response in the modern cultural world, but it can also account for a general theme shared by different unassociated people. So, while the account may be consistent with other stories, one cannot assume it is a valid encounter merely based on common themes. Within this traumatic recalling of an event or perceived event, the individual displays these common traits of the encounter.
In these events, the first aspect relates to the capture event. Whether in bed, or on the road, taken, or beamed, the capture event illustrates how the alien entity was able to capture the person. Following this step, includes the second aspect of experimentation and examining which can purely medical, or even sexual in nature. Following the experimentation, the third part of the account relates to some type of communication, followed fourth by a tour of the vessel, The fifth element is the universal experience of loss of time. Following the sixth part of return, most experience a seventh theophany event of some type of emotional or philosophical or metaphysical change or outlook on life. Some may experience a high or love, while others may be filled with a complete dread. Finally, the eighth phase includes the aftermath where the person attempts to understand the experience.
Within this account, what can we conclude?
For many, this may very well be explained by science or psychology from cognitive distortions, psychodynamic explanations, cultural biased views, unresolved trauma, drugs or some type of mental pathology.
For others, some studies have equally shown individuals of sane mind recounting these events and sharing a common narrative. Some of these stories come from reputable sources as well. The same can stem from stories of exorcism where individuals all account the same phenomenon or relate events that defy logic or scientific explanation.
Some from Christian perspectives hold that alien encounters are demonic manifestations.
Others from New Age perspectives share stories of collective alien alliances and different species of aliens with different intentions. Others claim to communicate with these entities.
With such a mixed results and theories based in bias, belief, and no true empirical universal proof, it can be very difficult to sift through what is really happening but one thing that can be agreed on is that the experience creates trauma and dread for many. Some may walk away with curiosity or hope, while others walk away with extreme dread. If a person illustrates no pathological or rational explanations, it is best to help the person face that trauma and not so much try to prove or disprove the event.
Counseling AAS
So from what we have concluded, whether someone enters a counseling sessions, speaking of seeing a demon, bigfoot or an alien, the counselor must approach the story carefully as not to prove or disprove and challenge the person at first. This can cause more trauma, especially for a person already suffering from psychosis, much less anger an individual who may have no mental issues but also strong spiritual beliefs. The purpose of the counseling is to help the person discover on their own if what they have experienced is real or not and how to heal from that trauma. If indeed, case study and psycho therapy or natural explanations emerge that present evidence of not a real event, the counselor as part of the healing process should help the person come to grips with that it was not real, but if such evidence is not presented, then the role of the counselor is to help the person heal from the trauma and in a healthy way come to some type of conclusion of what occurred, as unexplainable but plausible. The client should not be labeled as crazy or insane, but instead aided in reconciling the disturbing and unexplained event, as something that may have occurred, or yet to be determined. An individual who suffers from no true pathology, should not be made to feel superstitious or insane if a counselor has a different view on a unexplained religious experience or alien encounter. The goal again of the counselor is to help the client come to grips with the experience and to move forward from it.
In many of these cases, the experience itself can cause trauma, fear, dread and anxiety. One can develop insomnia and other sleep disturbances. Others may become hyper vigilant and become extra cautious of their surroundings or when they go certain places. Many exhibit what victims express during rape or assault and will share the same reactions. Some may experience intrusive thoughts, or due to PTSD of the event manifest flashbacks, nightmares, or even dissociate. Some may fall into depression, or social withdraw. The fears and also frustrations of not being believed, or considered crazy can have multiple emotional reactions with the person.
Helping individuals with PTSD usually involves grounding, EMDR, hypnosis, and meditation and breathing techniques. For many, cognitive behavioral therapy can help individuals understand why something like this happened to them and how to learn to cope through the loss and pain associated with it. Other emotional based Rogerian therapies may help the person express the pain and emotion of the event and the post ridicule and shame following the event. Others may find coping with support peer groups who share similar stories, or others my reinterpret the event as something tied to their role and spirituality with God. Those who experience demonic attack, or abductions, or even near death experiences, usually are able to tie to a deeper spiritual message that translates to a closer union with God and understanding of life. Whether traumatic or good experience, whether real or imaginary, it is important for the counselor to help the person come to grips what was experienced and to heal and grow from the trauma of the event.
Conclusion
While alien abduction, near death experience, or demonic attack has many explanations within psychology, not all cases fit the subjective credentials of someone being cognitively distorted, pathological or experiencing past trauma, but instead present real issues to the objective nature of the event. Many credible accounts in these experiences as well as recent investigations by the congressional house into UFO sightings have raised the bar to go beyond merely dismissing all accounts. While the status of these accounts are separating from folklore and myth, counselors need to discern that their client is not subjectively compromised to delusion, but after such investigation is thoroughly dismissed in an individual case, the counselor needs to help the client come to grips with the event and trauma. The trauma not the event should be the main concern in these cases for the counselor and the primary purpose to heal the client despite the counselor’s personal beliefs about it. The client needs to be freed from dangerous labels. In treating trauma, the counselor will need to address the issue from multiple therapies and ways to help the person again find resolution with the experience as to move forward in life.
Please also review AIHCP’s Behavioral Health Certifications and see if they meet one’s professional and academic needs. The programs are online and independent study and open to qualified professionals working within the scope of their non-clinical or clinical practice. Obviously treatment of alien abduction and the therapies fall under a clinical scope beyond the basic disucussion.
Additional Blogs
Christian Counseling: Aliens and Christian Theology. Click here
Additional Resources
Transpersonal Psychology. Access here
“The American UFO Encounter: Therapy and Coping Strategies for Post-Event Resilience”. Vetted. Access here
Lehmiller, J. (2023). “Why Some People Believe They’ve Been Abducted by Aliens”. Psychology Today. Access here
Alien Abduction. Wikipedia. Access here
Davey, G. (2012). “Five Traits That Could Get You “Abducted by Aliens”. Psychology Today. Access here
How Healthcare Professionals Can Support Better Rehab Outcomes
Written by Alex Alonso,
Rehabilitation plays a key role in helping patients regain strength, function, and hope. Yet good rehab needs more than just treatment plans. It needs dedicated people who know how to guide, motivate, and support. Healthcare professionals can support better rehab outcomes by using simple but effective steps in daily practice. Their patients rely on clear guidance and realistic goals. Likewise, families need advice and resources to help at home. All teams must work together and stay updated. Taking all these steps makes rehab work better for every patient. Focusing on clear talk, teamwork, and smart care plans enables healthcare professionals to support better rehab outcomes that truly last.
Build Trust Through Clear Communication
Trust is the foundation of strong rehab care (Ha, J. F., & Longnecker, N., 2010). Patients who trust their care team are more likely to follow plans and speak up when they struggle. To build trust, healthcare professionals must use clear and honest words. Avoid medical jargon that confuses or scares patients. Simple language eases fear and opens the door for questions.
Active listening is key—give patients time to share feelings or worries. Show empathy through words and actions. Even ‘tough’ talks about setbacks should be honest yet kind. For patients facing addiction, clear talk and support are vital, and extra resources such as substance abuse counseling can guide families and patients through difficult times. Open talks build trust, which helps healthcare professionals support every patient, no matter the challenge they face.
Create Patient-Centered Care Plans
Each patient has unique needs, goals, and limits. Therefore, a strong rehab plan should reflect this. Healthcare professionals can support better rehab outcomes by creating patient-centered care plans (Epstein, R. M., & Street, R. L., 2011).
First, listen to what matters most to the patient. Find out what motivates them and what fears hold them back. Adjust treatment goals to match their daily life and values. Keep plans flexible—if progress stalls, talk about new options.
Also, bring the patient into every step. When people feel heard, they stay engaged. For patients with addiction, it helps to understand the nature of addiction and substance abuse for each patient, so plans can address their specific needs. Share updates often and check if goals still fit. Patient-centered care builds trust and keeps rehab focused on real progress.
Set Realistic Expectations for Recovery
Setting clear and realistic expectations helps patients stay motivated during rehab. Unmet hopes can lead to frustration and dropout. Healthcare professionals can support better rehab outcomes by talking openly about timelines, limits, and possible setbacks.
Each person’s progress depends on many factors, including age, health, and the type of substance involved. Some addictions take longer to treat than others, and it helps to know that rehab recovery rates vary by substance. This knowledge guides professionals to give honest, informed advice that fits each patient’s situation.
When patients know what to expect, they feel more in control and less afraid of slow progress. So, set small, reachable goals along the way. Celebrate wins, no matter how small. Honest talks about recovery timelines builds trust and helps patients stick with treatment until they reach a stronger, stable life.
Foster Multidisciplinary Teamwork
No one can handle rehab alone. Healthcare professionals can support better rehab outcomes by working as a strong, united team (Zwarenstein, M., Goldman, J., & Reeves, S., 2023). Each member brings a skill that helps patients heal faster and better. Doctors, nurses, therapists, and social workers must share updates and goals often. Clear teamwork avoids mistakes and keeps care smooth. Good teamwork makes patients feel safe and supported from all sides.
Key ways to foster teamwork:
- Define each role clearly so that duties do not overlap.
- Share patient updates in a simple, clear format.
- Hold weekly meetings to fix gaps early.
- Respect each member’s input and ideas.
- Solve conflicts quickly to keep trust strong.
When everyone works together, patients see better results and feel true support.
Monitor Progress Consistently
Progress checks keep patients on track and show what works or needs to change. Watching progress closely and adjusting plans when needed is crucial for positive outcomes. Use simple tools to track daily or weekly goals.
Share these updates with patients to keep them motivated. When patients see proof of improvement, they gain hope and push harder. If progress stalls, act fast—talk with the team, find barriers, and fix them early. Keep records clear and easy to share with the whole care team.
Good monitoring helps spot problems before they grow. Check-ins can be quick but should happen often. Honest progress talks build trust and keep everyone focused on real results. When healthcare teams watch progress closely, patients get better care and stronger rehab results.
Encourage Family and Caregiver Involvement
Family and caregivers play a big role in a patient’s rehab journey. They can motivate, remind, and guide patients when professionals are not around. Healthcare professionals can support better rehab outcomes by teaching families how to help safely and wisely.
First, give clear instructions for home exercises and daily care. Explain what signs to watch for if things get worse. Families should feel free to ask questions at any stage. Offer tips for daily challenges, such as managing addiction during holidays, when stress and temptations can rise. Share simple dos and don’ts that can help them avoid common mistakes. Also, include caregivers in progress talks to keep everyone informed.
When families feel supported and prepared, they stay strong partners in care. Their steady help boosts patient confidence and makes rehab goals easier to reach.
Use Technology to Improve Care
Technology can make rehab easier, faster, and more personal. Using simple tech tools that fit patient needs enables healthcare professionals to support better rehab outcomes.
For instance, telehealth visits help patients check in without leaving home. Mobile apps remind them to do daily exercises and track progress. Video calls keep families involved, even from far away. These easy-to-use tools help patients stay on plan and share updates with their team.
However, before using new tools, show patients how they work. Keep instructions short and clear. Pick apps or devices that match the patient’s skill level. Use online reports to spot problems early. Keep in mind that tech should not replace human care but add to it.
Smart tools save time and help patients feel connected and supported every step of the way. When used right, technology builds trust and stronger rehab results.
Provide Ongoing Training for Staff
Good rehab care depends on skilled, confident staff. Staying trained and informed is crucial so that healthcare professionals can support better rehab outcomes. Regular training keeps everyone updated on new methods and tools.
Short courses or workshops can also refresh key skills and add new ones. Peer reviews help staff learn from each other’s strengths. Simple feedback sessions fix small problems before they grow. Encourage open talks about what works and what needs to change. All of this builds a work culture where learning never stops.
When staff feel ready and supported, they give better care. Patients notice this and trust the team more. Strong training programs lead to clear plans, safe care, and steady progress for every patient. Skilled teams make real recovery possible.
Address Mental and Emotional Health
Rehab is not just about the body; the mind matters too. Stress, fear, and low mood can slow recovery and weaken progress. Healthcare professionals can support better rehab outcomes by caring for mental and emotional health alongside physical healing (Kelly, J. F., & Greene, M. C., 2014).
Watch for signs of anxiety or depression. Take time to listen if a patient feels overwhelmed. You can always offer simple stress tips, such as deep breathing or light exercise. If needed, connect patients with counselors for extra help. Use group support when possible to help patients share and heal together.
For some, knowing the connection between addiction and mental health can make it easier to talk about hidden struggles. When mental health is cared for, patients stay stronger, stick with treatment, and see real gains that last far beyond rehab.
Promote Long-Term Self-Management
Rehab does not end when formal treatment stops. Patients still need tools to manage their own care at home. Healthcare professionals can teach them long-term self-management skills. First, show patients how to track progress and spot warning signs early. Give them simple, clear guides they can follow along. Also, encourage healthy habits that keep recovery strong. Check-in often, even after discharge, to keep support steady.
Here are some key steps to promote self-management:
- Teach safe home exercises and stretches.
- Provide easy checklists for daily care tasks.
- Share a simple meal or sleep tips to boost recovery.
- Set up reminders for follow-up visits.
- Encourage patients to keep a journal of progress.
When patients take charge of their own care, they stay more active and confident. Good self-management keeps rehab results strong for life.
Keep Improving Rehab Together
Better rehab outcomes depend on strong support, clear plans, and trust. By using simple steps each day, healthcare teams can help patients recover faster and safer. Healthcare professionals can support better rehab outcomes when they stay trained, listen closely, and adjust plans to fit each person’s needs. Small actions add up to big results. Keep sharing what works with your team and stay open to new ideas. Patients count on you to guide them back to a stronger, healthier life. So, stay committed, stay informed, and help every patient reach their best possible recovery.
Author bio
Alex Alonso is the COO of Bright Futures Treatment Center and a strong advocate for patient-focused rehabilitation. He works closely with healthcare teams to ensure every patient gets the support they need for lasting recovery. Alex believes that clear communication and teamwork help healthcare professionals support better rehab outcomes every day.
References
Epstein, R. M., & Street, R. L. (2011). The values and value of patient-centered care. Annals of Family Medicine, 9(2), 100–103. Access here
Ha, J. F., & Longnecker, N. (2010). Doctor-patient communication: A review. Ochsner Journal, 10(1), 38–43. Access here
Kelly, J. F., & Greene, M. C. (2014). Where there’s a will, there’s a way: A longitudinal investigation of the interplay between recovery motivation and self-efficacy in predicting recovery pathways and outcomes. Psychology of Addictive Behaviors, 28(3), 928–934. Access here
Zwarenstein, M., Goldman, J., & Reeves, S. (2023). Interprofessional collaboration: Effects of practice-based interventions on professional practice and healthcare outcomes. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2023(5), CD000072. Access here
Additional resources
Wade, D. T. (2020). What is rehabilitation? An empirical investigation leading to an evidence-based description. Clinical Rehabilitation, 34(5), 571–583.
Access here
Turner-Stokes, L. (2008). Evidence for the effectiveness of multidisciplinary rehabilitation following acquired brain injury: A synthesis of two systematic approaches. Journal of Rehabilitation Medicine, 40(9), 691–701. Access here
Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Practitioner Certification program and see if it meets your academic and professional goals. These programs are online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification
Grieving and Autism Spectrum
I. Introduction
When delving into grief as it’s experienced by those with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), it’s important to start with a careful look at the specific hurdles these individuals encounter when dealing with loss. People with ASD might show grief in ways that are different from what’s considered typical; this often involves emotional expression that seems more limited, and their ways of processing emotions can make it harder for them to connect with others who are also grieving. This can cause misunderstandings, where others might not pick up on the less obvious signs of grief in someone with autism. We should also consider how evolving classifications of mental health conditions, like those in the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11), emphasize the importance of fully understanding how grief can manifest differently across this group (Dan J Stein et al., 2020). Besides this, research looking at the neurobiology behind social behaviors, such as the part oxytocin plays, offers crucial understanding of how people with ASD feel and show their grief (Robert C Froemke et al., 2021).
Grief counselors need to be aware of the different grieving styles found in ASD clients. Please also review AIHCP’s Grief Counseling Certification and see if it meets your academic and professional goals. Please click here to learn more.
A. Definition of grief and its universal impact
Experiencing grief, that profound sorrow and emotional pain that comes after losing someone important, is something everyone deals with, no matter their background or culture. It shows up in different ways and affects not just how we feel inside, but also how we interact with others and our overall mental health. Now, for individuals on the autism spectrum, dealing with grief can look quite different compared to those who are neurotypical, which brings about its own set of difficulties when trying to navigate these deep emotions. As we see when talking about Prolonged Grief Disorder, autistic individuals may struggle to put their feelings of loss into words or reach out for help, possibly making them feel even more alone ((Bobadilla T, 2024)). Furthermore, certain online communities, like those of incels, really highlight how grief and a sense of hopelessness can get all mixed up, especially for people who feel like their chances in life are limited ((Tirkkonen S et al., 2023)). So, when all is said and done, understanding how complex grief can be is super important for being empathetic and providing the right kind of support.
B. Overview of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Autism Spectrum Disorder, or ASD, is a fairly intricate condition. It’s neurodevelopmental, which means it has to do with how the brain grows and changes, and it’s really defined by a whole bunch of different symptoms. These symptoms mainly affect how people interact with others, how they communicate, and their general behavior. People diagnosed with ASD can show different levels of difficulty – some may really struggle, but others might actually have super sharp minds. Given this wide range, it can make dealing with grief extra tough because, well, everyone’s experience is a bit different. Research, (Tirkkonen S et al., 2023), tells us that ASD can leave people more open to emotional hurts, so nasty places online, like incel groups, may just make those with self-described autism feel even more lost and without hope. Further, when we look at the similarities between ASD and things like anorexia, (Nimbley E et al., 2023), we see they sometimes share similar weak spots, especially when it comes to handling social situations and sensory stuff. All this just points to the need for custom support that gets what each person with ASD needs, particularly when they’re going through tough emotional times like grief and loss.
C. Importance of understanding the intersection of grief and ASD
It’s really important that we get how grief and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) affect each other so we can build good support for people with ASD and their families. Grief is something everyone deals with, but it can show up differently for folks who also have ASD challenges. Sometimes, parents and caregivers might feel a big sense of loss because their child’s development isn’t what they expected. This loss might feel even harder because people don’t always understand autism (Boling et al., 2024). On top of that, it can be tricky for people with ASD to get a handle on their feelings about losing someone or something and express them properly. This can result in feeling lonely and confused when they’re grieving (McElroy et al., 2022). When we take a closer look at these different experiences, experts can come up with better ways to help by dealing with both the feelings and the everyday stuff that comes with grief. By doing so, we can create spaces that help people heal and understand what’s going on. When all is said and done, acknowledging how these things come together can make our academic work and clinical stuff better, making it easier to help those working through the tough stuff of grief connected to ASD.
II. Understanding Grief
Grief, it’s a complex thing, often not really understood, and it shows up differently in families, especially those with autistic kids. Raising autistic teens, parents often deal with grief mixed with accepting their child’s autism. These caregivers’ experiences, particularly when things get tough, show how grief and recognizing their child’s strengths can exist together. Research suggests that even when parents accept the situation, grief can still pop up now and then as they face ongoing autism-related challenges. This includes planning for future care, especially without enough support (Manohar H et al., 2024). The neurobiology of autism, like dopamine issues linked to inflexible behavior, makes this emotional journey even harder, pointing to a need for a full understanding of grief in this situation (Carbonell-Roig J et al., 2024).
A. Stages of grief according to Kübler-Ross model
When a child is diagnosed with autism, the Kübler-Ross model—outlining denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and eventual acceptance—can help understand a parent’s emotional journey. Many parents, at first, might find it hard to fully accept what the diagnosis means, as studies show autism diagnoses can be emotionally taxing ((Ryan et al., 2012)). Feelings of anger might then surface, often directed at what seems unfair, and this can be intensified by the stigma society sometimes attaches to disabilities. In their quest to help their child, parents may start bargaining, seeking solutions to lessen the challenges. Worries about their child’s future might then give way to depression, a sentiment observed in families dealing with significant disabilities ((Kantor et al., 2019)). Gaining acceptance, while tough, is crucial because it allows parents to actively look for support for both themselves and their child.
B. Emotional and psychological responses to loss
Reactions to loss, emotionally and psychologically speaking, can vary quite a bit among people on the autism spectrum; their experience of grief is often profoundly individual. Now, studies suggest family caregivers of kids diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often feel deep sorrow due to caregiving, exhibiting ambiguous grief stemming from the diagnosis and life’s difficulties (Baron-Cohen et al., 2019). For autistic individuals, the loss of someone close can bring about a variety of reactions, such as increased sensitivity to sensory input and altered emotional regulation, both closely tied to their specific neurological wiring (Pang et al., 2023). In most cases, these experiences emphasize how vital it is to acknowledge that grief unfolds uniquely in those with ASD, pointing to the need for customized support systems. Such programs should tackle the complex emotional terrain these individuals cross, because understanding these responses truly helps in promoting resilience and boosting overall well-being when loss occurs.
C. Cultural variations in grieving practices
How grief is handled changes quite a bit depending on culture, shaped as it is by what’s considered normal, religious views, and how families are set up. In quite a few cultures, grieving together is really important; these shared mourning events help people who are grieving feel more connected. You see this, for example, in some African and Latin American communities where public grieving is common. Think about the support that Black and Latino fathers of students with autism talk about – these shared experiences are key when dealing with loss (Christian et al., 2017). On the other hand, in Western cultures, there’s often a focus on individual grief, which can unfortunately lead to isolation, especially for those with Autism Spectrum Disorder who might find social communication difficult. Now, when we look at what’s written about grieving teenagers, we see that culturally sensitive therapies that let them express themselves – like songwriting – can really help them work through their emotions, regardless of their background. So, the big takeaway here is that grief support should be personalized to really meet the diverse needs of different communities (Waters et al., 2022).
III. Grieving in Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder
When considering grief in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), one must recognize how neurodiversity shapes their experiences. Research into ambiguous loss offers valuable insights into this, particularly for parents. They often grapple with a specific kind of grief, reconciling their expectations with the realities of raising a child with autism. (Pasichniak R, 2024) highlights how this can manifest as emotional ambivalence and future uncertainties. What’s interesting is that traditional models of grief might not neatly apply to those with ASD. Individuals may find concepts of loss and emotional expression challenging, which subsequently limits their ability to express what they’re feeling. It’s worth noting the emergence of innovative approaches like game-driven social and emotional skill development; these can help build better coping strategies and promote healing. Addressing these complex grief experiences is paramount to supporting individuals with ASD, as well as their families (Kim B et al., 2023).
A. Unique emotional processing in individuals with ASD
Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) tend to show certain specific traits when it comes to how they process emotions, and this is especially noticeable when they are dealing with grief and loss. Research suggests that when adolescents with ASD grieve, they often go through similar stages as people who aren’t on the spectrum, although it might take them a bit longer (Johnson et al., 2016). However, this difference in emotional response can be made more complicated because they often have unique ways of processing sensory information, which can lead to bigger problems when they are dealing with bereavement. During this time, as they come to terms with the loss, they may exhibit increased emotional distress, sometimes showing it through shutdowns or even meltdowns (Pang et al., 2023). Furthermore, their need for stability and predictability can become even stronger. Because of this, it’s vital to understand these emotional processing patterns so that effective therapeutic interventions can be made to resonate with autistic individuals, thus allowing them to investigate their grief and develop connections, even though their emotional experiences may be complex.
B. Challenges faced by individuals with ASD during grief
Dealing with grief can be especially tough for people with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), since their way of thinking and feeling affects how they handle loss. Unlike people who aren’t on the spectrum, those with ASD often struggle to express what they’re feeling, and this can make them feel even more alone when they’re grieving. For instance, someone with ASD might focus more on what happens next after a loss, rather than dealing with the emotional aspects, which can make it harder to express themselves and connect with people who can support them. What’s more, the unpredictable nature of grief can really ramp up anxiety related to sensory overload, as some studies have noted when looking at how autistic people handle big life changes (Pang et al., 2023). Also, family caregivers of kids with ASD often experience a kind of ongoing sadness that makes their own grieving process harder, because they’re trying to deal with both their child’s reactions and their own feelings of loss (Baron-Cohen et al., 2019). It’s really important to understand all of this in order to create support that’s tailored to their needs.
C. Communication barriers in expressing grief
Grief, as a process, presents unique communication challenges, particularly for those on the autism spectrum, impacting their ability to convey emotions and cope with loss. The experience of grief for autistic individuals is often unique; typical mourning expressions may clash with their communication styles and sensory sensitivities. Sensory processing changes during bereavement, for example, can be overwhelming, possibly leading to masking behaviors or shutdowns, thus obscuring emotional expression. These situations may intensify feelings of marginalization, especially when societal norms don’t quite align with autistic experiences (Pang et al., 2023). The issue is that accessible support systems are often lacking, further complicating the articulation of grief and potentially increasing the social stigma around the individual’s emotional responses (A Miranda et al., 2017). Therefore, understanding these distinct communication barriers becomes paramount in order to develop effective support and communication strategies tailored for autistic individuals navigating the grieving process.
IV. Support Strategies for Grieving Individuals with ASD
For individuals on the Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) navigating grief, support strategies must be carefully tailored to their specific emotional and communicative profiles. Because adolescents with ASD often find peer interactions and emotional expression challenging, their experience of grief might look quite different from their neurotypical counterparts, sometimes unfolding over a longer period (Johnson et al., 2016). A promising route could involve innovative support like grief therapy combined with interactive tools—perhaps even video games—allowing them to explore emotions within a context they understand. Such therapeutic routes could really help connect abstract notions of death with the realities of their lives, boosting their comprehension and ability to process grief. It’s also essential to recognize the ongoing sorrow and ambiguous grief felt by the family caregivers of kids with ASD, as they manage their complex roles (Baron-Cohen et al., 2019). Through comprehensive support, both those with ASD and their families can find better emotional health and more effective ways to cope during times of loss.
A. Tailored therapeutic approaches for ASD individuals
Addressing the specific difficulties faced by individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) through tailored therapeutic interventions is incredibly important, especially when considering grief and loss. Often, standard therapeutic approaches don’t fully account for the unique emotional and social needs of individuals with ASD, and this, in turn, can impede effective coping during bereavement. Studies suggest it’s important to incorporate family-centered psychosocial support, focusing on each person’s cognitive and emotional skills (Suzanne M Nevin et al., 2023). Furthermore, early assessment and diagnosis are key, as they can greatly assist targeted interventions intended to improve overall quality of life, and reduce psychosocial issues linked to grief (Hayes N et al., 2023). Practitioners can foster supportive settings by customizing therapeutic strategies, which not only build resilience but also enable individuals with ASD to navigate their emotions, improving the experience of grief and promoting adaptation to loss.
Grief counselors with special training in ASD can help clients who are grieving with ASD. Obviously, these types of grief counselors are licensed professionals and able within the scope of their practice to offer more than merely pastoral counselors, but understanding ASD and its role in grief is something every counselor-both non-clinical and clinical alike-need to understand to better help and direct these individuals towards healing.
B. Role of family and caregivers in the grieving process
For individuals with autism, the grieving process presents unique challenges, making the support of family and caregivers incredibly important. Because these individuals often have heightened emotional responses and struggle to understand loss, families are essential as a primary support system, helping them navigate the complexities of grief while addressing the specific needs tied to autism. Stability and consistency are vital during times of emotional upheaval, and families provide these. Caregivers often help facilitate communication about grief, and generally speaking, they use tailored approaches that align with the person’s cognitive and emotional abilities. The COVID-19 pandemic, for instance, demonstrated how external stressors can intensify isolation and anxiety in families experiencing loss, underscoring the need for family cohesion and support in building resilience (Cécile Rousseau et al., 2020). Psychoeducation about grief is a component of effective family interventions that can empower families to manage their emotional states, thus enhancing the overall grieving process (Varghese M et al., 2020). Ultimately, this collaborative approach becomes essential for promoting healing within the family unit.
C. Community resources and support groups available
Dealing with grief, especially when Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is involved, means that community resources and support groups become super important for families and individuals. These resources? They don’t just offer emotional backup; they also give real, useful ways to handle loss, shaped to fit how people on the spectrum see things. For example, some groups might use cool tech like the Metaverse to build spaces where people can show their grief without feeling unsafe, like (Chengoden R et al., 2023) mentions. Plus, assistive tech is a big deal for making learning and support easy to get to, which helps everyone feel included and understood, even if they have a hard time learning or are dealing with a loss, as (Yenduri G et al., 2023) reminds us. Really, mixing new tech with community help builds a network that’s key to helping people connected to ASD heal and adjust when they’re grieving. Also, it is important to remember some orginizations offer group settings that can assist.
V. Conclusion
In summary, when we’re talking about grief and autism spectrum disorder (ASD), it’s super important to understand the deep, complicated emotions that family caregivers go through. Raising a child with ASD often brings up a lot of ambiguous grief, because parents are dealing with the loss of typical milestones and social experiences for their kids. Research shows that caregivers experience ongoing sadness because ASD has such a big effect on their everyday lives and hopes for the future (Baron-Cohen et al., 2019). Plus, things like disasters and other societal problems can make their grief even worse and recovery harder (A Miranda et al., 2017). So, it’s crucial to create specific support systems that really understand what they’re going through. This will help build resilience and improve the well-being of both the caregivers and their families, generally speaking.
Please also remember to review AIHCP’s Grief Counseling Training program and see if it meets your academic or professional goals.
A. Summary of key points discussed
Looking at grief through the lens of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) shows us a connection that’s both intricate and fascinating, especially when we consider how emotions and sensory experiences interact. People with ASD might not grieve in the way we typically expect. You might see a stronger reaction to sensory input, alongside a diverse array of emotional expressions. Studies have suggested that those natural tendencies to notice sensory details can actually become more intense in individuals with ASD. This can unfortunately make it harder for them to move through the grieving process smoothly (Hannah R Monday et al., 2023). It’s also worth noting that new technologies, like what’s being developed in the Metaverse, could open up some interesting possibilities for helping people with ASD cope with loss. Think about immersive digital spaces – they could make grief support more readily available and customizable to the individual (Chengoden R et al., 2023). What all this points to is the clear need for grief counseling strategies that are customized to meet the distinct needs of individuals on the autism spectrum, really emphasizing how crucial it is for us to understand what they’re going through when they experience loss.
B. The importance of empathy and understanding in grief
Grief’s complexity is often magnified, particularly for those on the autism spectrum, whose emotional navigation differs markedly from neurotypical individuals. Empathy and understanding are crucial in supporting these individuals as they grieve. Bereavement, research suggests, significantly destabilizes relational and emotional foundations, resulting in distinct grief reactions in autistic individuals, potentially manifesting as heightened sensory sensitivity and alterations in social interaction (Pang et al., 2023). Caregivers and support systems should therefore tailor their empathetic approaches. Indeed, communal activities like music have proven effective in enhancing emotional comprehension and social engagement among individuals with autism, thus promoting empathetic bonds (Baron-Cohen et al., 2014). Integrating empathy into grief support is therefore of significant importance, allowing for a more profound connection that acknowledges and respects the unique emotional experiences of each individual, fostering healing during times of loss. One might even say that, generally speaking, such support is beneficial in most cases.
C. Future directions for research and support in grieving and ASD
Looking ahead, as we learn more about how grief and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) overlap, future studies really need to focus on new ways to tackle the specific difficulties people with ASD encounter when grieving. For example, using virtual reality (VR) in therapy seems like a good idea. It offers immersive simulations that could assist people with ASD in dealing with tricky emotional situations and social interactions connected to loss (Zhang M et al., 2022). Also, studying biomarkers linked to grief responses might improve how we diagnose and personalize support, giving us a better understanding of the physical reasons behind grief in this group (Jensen A et al., 2022). Setting up partnerships between psychologists, neurologists, and tech experts could also lead to useful interventions that really connect with the different ways grieving people with ASD experience loss. By concentrating on these new avenues, research and support can do a better job of dealing with the intricate nature of grief within the ASD community.
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Additional Resources
Srinivasan, H. (2024). “The Spectrum of Loss: Grief Through the Autistic Lens”. Psychology Today. Access here
Wheeler, M. “Supporting Individuals on the Autism Spectrum Coping with Grief and Loss through Death or Divorce” Indiana University Bloomington. Access here
“Autism and Grief” Adult Autism. Access here
Doka, K. (2023). “Adults with Autism Grieve, Too”. Psychology Today. Access here