What does research tell us concerning the relationship between protest and trauma?
There isn’t any significant amount of empirical research data showing a relationship between violent protest and emotional trauma. But Recent research I saw the protest in Ferguson, Missouri, USADemonstrators took to the streets after the state didn’t indict a white police officer who shot and killed 18-year-old Michael Brown, showing how much suffering has resulted from the violence displayed through the protests. happened
The study involved each community and cops and sought to look at how exposure to community violence would affect mental health, specifically post-traumatic stress disorder and depressive symptoms, in addition to anger. Although it seems that community members reported more symptoms than cops, overall it was found that exposure to such violence led to higher levels of distress amongst those directly exposed.
Research suggested that mental health intervention could also be essential for some community members who were directly experiencing the resulting violence.
What are the risks – beyond the physical – for those directly involved in violent acts? What form of trauma can they experience?
It is feasible that people who find themselves involved in or directly exposed to violent situations will experience emotional distress. In more vulnerable people, similar to those with a more anxious temperament, it might result in developing symptoms of severe stress disorder.
Acute stress disorder May arise in response to exposure to a traumatic event similar to threatened or actual violence. Typically, the person feels anxious and relives the event through unwanted memories, dreams, or flashbacks that feel intrusive and painful. They could also be in response to event reminders. Symptoms must appear after exposure and, if diagnosed, must be present for not less than three days but not last greater than a month.
Can individuals who usually are not directly involved in these protests be traumatized—by watching the protests unfold or hearing stories from their friends?
People who usually are not directly exposed to trauma can still experience “acute” trauma. This has been described in a wide range of settings, similar to amongst college students The September 11 attacks in New York.
So did the kids who watched The space shuttle Challenger exploded. In 1986 too, this terrible shock was faced.
It appears that geographic proximity can affect one's emotional state without direct exposure. In addition, the extent of media exposure can also have an impact, as does the placement of the event.
How does trauma present itself? What signs should people search for in themselves and others?
This can manifest as trouble with sleep and concentration problems. It may affect the person's day by day activities. And they will avoid the place where the incident happened, for instance.
What should they do to address the trauma?
When someone begins to experience these feelings, it is crucial to share these changes with someone they trust. They must also be open to the potential of consultation if changes persist. They must also understand that disorientation could be a perfectly normal response. The degree of persistence and impact on their functioning will likely influence the necessity to seek skilled help.