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Wrapping up triggered memories
SAID ALOUD
Wrapping up triggered memories
Aim. To link triggers and flashbacks to the next sessions, that deal with tools for coping.
PART II: THE TRAINING
Discussion. Wrapping up triggered memories.( 10 minutes in plenary.)
DISCUSSION
Discuss the questions below, drawing on your own experience of working with survivors.
• What helps the Butterfly Woman to be calmer and live in the present when she is distressed by trauma memories?
• What strategies do you employ to calm survivors of GBV?
• What do you do if the women with whom you work lack energy?
Trainer. In this session, we considered the nature of trauma-reminders. Thank you all for your contributions. Next we will work at coping skills – on what helps the Butterfly Woman.
Let’ s end the session with a Hug.
Grounding Exercise 2. The Hug.( 5-8 minutes.) This exercise helps to calm a person who feels agitated.
GROUNDING EXERCISE
Put your right hand palm down on your left shoulder. Put your left hand palm down on your right shoulder. Choose a sentence that will strengthen you. For example, say:“ I’ m a good enough helper” or“ I feel calm”. Say the sentence out loud first and pat your right hand on your left shoulder, then your left hand on your right shoulder. Alternate the patting.
Do ten alternating pats altogether, each time repeating your sentences aloud.
Trainer. We have heard and discussed the Butterfly Woman’ s story. It is a useful tool for working with survivors. We will now look at other tools, and in particular at ways of working with trauma reminders and strong emotional reactions.