"Advocate for your kids, get them the support they need, but also take care of yourself."
ADHD, ODD, RAD—these letters represent mental health diagnoses that commonly label our children in foster care. But are they accurate diagnoses for your child? What role does trauma play in your child’s behaviors? Today’s episode is super practical and will leave you with the resources and help you need to understand your child better and walk with them towards healing.
1. Understanding trauma is key to understanding our children.
There is a significant difference between being safe and feeling safe. When our children don’t feel safe, they move into flight, flight, or freeze mode. When our kids are in flight, fight or freeze mode, they aren’t able to process, reason, or make great choices. So rather than disciplining a behavior, our goal should be a connection. Once their emotions have come back to a place of regulation, then the work of training can begin.
2. Symptoms don’t tell the whole story.
Identifying the correct diagnosis is a critical step in getting the most effective therapies for your child. It is essential to understand that your child’s symptoms may be more emotional than behavioral. Something to note is if your child’s medication is not working the way it is supposed to be, this may be an indicator that the struggles your child is facing stem from trauma and thus your therapeutic plan may need revamping.
3. Trust brings healing.
Although trauma can cause a child’s brain to expect pain and hurt instinctually, the brain can be remapped! Finding a therapist, especially one who specializes in trauma-based therapy, will provide a solid start on the path toward healing.
RESOURCES FROM TODAY’S SHOW
The TFI Story
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Hopefully, this episode has helped you right where you are on your foster care journey. That’s the goal. If you enjoyed it, will you tell others?
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