Connection and Hidden Trauma

Shannon, Kylie and Carolann have all been continuing their personal and professional development. Last week they attended two seminars, which Shannon discusses here.

Exploring the Science of Intergenerational Trauma

Last week, I had the opportunity to immerse myself in two significant events, aimed at deepening my understanding of complex issues. On Tuesday Kylie and I travelled to Edinburgh to attend a thought-provoking talk by Dr. Jane Mulcahy, titled "The Science of Intergenerational Trauma," hosted by Seed Talk.

Dr. Mulcahy delivered a gripping presentation that delved into the complex and often hidden layers of generational trauma. She eloquently articulated the profound impact it has on our bodies and minds, illustrating how unmet emotional needs can create a ripple effect when connections are severed. Her insights illuminated the importance of recognising and addressing these issues in our lives and communities.

The talk was not only informative but also deeply moving, as it highlighted the critical need for awareness and intervention in breaking the cycle of trauma. Dr. Mulcahy's expertise and passion for the subject were evident, making the session both engaging and enlightening.

Attending this event has reinforced my commitment to understanding and addressing the effects of trauma in our communities. It is essential that we continue to educate ourselves and support initiatives that aim to heal and empower individuals and families affected by generational trauma.

Biology of Belonging

On Thursday, we headed to Glasgow for the second day of the Tigers' "Biology of Belonging" conference. Thanks to the generosity of Suzanne - at Trauma Informed Parenting - we were given two tickets, opening the door to invaluable insights from leading experts on the significance of connection, early interventions and prevention.

I often find myself in awe of prominent scholars and speakers whose work resonates profoundly with our mission at the Muirhead Outreach Project. This time was no exception! I even spotted Jane from Tuesday and approached her and weirdly tapped her on the shoulder as we were walking into the toilets and told her how much I enjoyed her talk.

We were thoroughly engaged by the panel speakers who shared their rich knowledge, experiences and opinions on pressing issues affecting today’s youth and the lasting impact they can have into adulthood. Although we missed Dr. Schwartz’s talk on day one, we were fortunate to catch him during one of the panels. As a respected author and significant figure in his field, he has developed the renowned "Internal Family Systems" approach, which thoughtfully explores the intricate "parts" of ourselves. I encourage you to look him up and dive into his work!

A standout moment for us was hearing Dan Siegel, an esteemed scholar and author known for his expertise in the mind and family psychotherapy. His remarkable ability to simplify complex concepts, such as his "Handy Model of the Brain," left a lasting impression.

The conference reinforced vital messages about attachment, the power of connection, and the importance of belonging. We discovered just how enriching life can be when we create environments of safety, predictability, and secure attachments.

This event was filled with exceptional speakers and was expertly organised. We are eager for it to return next year, and we are committed to raising enough funds for all seven of our staff members to benefit from this experience. Bravo to the Tigers!

Ultimately, we came away with a wealth of knowledge and an invigorating sense of purpose. We are confident that our approaches here at Muirhead align seamlessly with those of established experts in the field.

Stay tuned for more insights and reflections from my experiences at events we attend.

Together, we can work towards a more informed and compassionate society.