6 days ago
5
IN THE days since Hurricane Melissa, many persons have been trying to stay strong while carrying more than words can express. Homes are being repaired, hearts are still processing, and workplaces are quietly holding the weight of it all.
As a result, NexxStepp Lifelong Educational Services has launched ‘National Therapy’, a three-part national mental health series designed to help Jamaica heal together, across communities, schools, and professional networks.
The second part of the series, held recently, provided a compassionate space for those indirectly impacted by the hurricane, including educators, non-profit professionals, corporate staff, and community leaders who continue to serve others while navigating their own recovery.
Tishauna Mullings, a social development practitioner and chief social innovator at NexxStepp Lifelong Educational Services, said understanding and healing from trauma involves recognising it as a complex psychological and physiological response that requires a multifaceted approach.
For survivors, she said healing also involves active self-care, processing emotions through healthy outlets like journalling or mindfulness, finding a sense of purpose, and connecting with others who understand.
Mullings added that it is important to acknowledge that healing is a long, non-linear process, and one should avoid imposing expectations or timelines. In addition, listen without judgement, and accept their feelings.
“It is important to build trust through respect, transparency, and consistency. Ensure that people feel safe, both physically and emotionally. Give them options and control wherever possible, as regaining a sense of autonomy is crucial for healing,” Mullings said.
“Offer support by listening without criticism or blame, and only give advice if they ask for it. Let them know you care and are there for them,” she advised.
For survivors navigating their own healing, Mullings said it is important to acknowledge the trauma and your feelings, while recognising the reality of what happened and allowing yourself to process the complex emotions that come with it.
“Therapies like cognitive behavioural therapy, eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing, and dialectical behaviour therapy can provide a structured environment to process trauma and develop coping skills,” Mullings said.
She added that it is important to regain a sense of control and focus on what you can control in the present moment, while setting small, realistic goals for yourself.
“Be kind to yourself, especially on difficult days. Healing is hard, and you deserve care and understanding. Reconnect with yourself and find meaning in life through creativity, relationships, or helping others. This can be a powerful source of hope,” Mullings said.
For those supporting a survivor, here are a few tips that can help you navigate these difficult times:
• Be patient and validate their feelings: Acknowledge that healing is a long, non-linear process and avoid imposing expectations or timelines. In addition, listen without judgement and accept their feelings.
• Prioritise safety and trust: Build trust through respect, transparency, and consistency. Ensure they feel safe, both physically and emotionally.
• Empower them with choices: Give them options and control wherever possible, as regaining a sense of autonomy is crucial for healing.
• Listen more than you advise: Offer support by listening without criticism or blame, and only provide advice if they ask for it. Let them know you care and are there for them.
English (US) ·