Collective Trauma is a psychological effect shared by a group of people of any size. Traumatic events witnessed by an entire society can impact relationships, alter policies and governmental processes, and change social norms―like the absence of shaking hands due to COVID. Two examples of events that can lead to collective trauma are a global pandemic and racial injustice. These events can lead to “a crisis of meaning,” in which groups reevaluate their identity and purpose within their society.
In the face of recent events, Counseling In Schools is working to understand and address our resulting collective trauma. The role and job of educators has changed dramatically since the pandemic began, and likewise, parents have taken on a lot of teacher responsibilities at home. Counseling In Schools is available to offer tools for coping and healing with regard to these changes.