social epidemiology historical trauma or intergenerational trauma

In his work in the Bay Area and beyond, Sánchez-Flores advocates for racial equity and healing, with a focus on reframing cultural identity as an asset rather than a barrier. Research suggesting a link between historical trauma and substance use, PTSD, and other health issues has bolstered the case for an important evolution of trauma-informed care: culturally rooted healing models.įor historically marginalized groups, affirmation of cultural identity can be a foundation for healthy people and healthy communities, says Héctor Sánchez-Flores, the executive director of the National Compadres Network (NCN) and a leading voice in the space of historical trauma and culturally-rooted healing. Without considering the context of culture in this trauma - and its potential to heal - healthcare and community-based interventions can perpetuate a cycle of poor outcomes. Groups targeted due to their racial, religious, or ethnic identities continue to grapple with the social, economic, and emotional fallout for generations, a concept that’s known as historical trauma. While understanding the influence of trauma is critical, providers also need to build collective strengths - being mindful not to look at communities through a deficit-based lens.

However, a growing swell of voices is suggesting that trauma-informed care at the individual level is just the starting line in the sprint to transform outcomes. It’s widely acknowledged that trauma can have far-reaching health impacts, and trauma-informed approaches have become an important tool for many healthcare providers. The sources of trauma take many shapes, running the gamut from poverty and domestic violence to wartime disaster and personal loss.

Social epidemiology historical trauma or intergenerational trauma