Bridges for Communities is a charity based in Bristol working to connect people of different cultures and faiths. Their aim is to encourage these communities to build friendships, to grow in understanding of one another, and to live together in peace. You can find out more about the charity here.
There are times where we may find ourselves wanting to love and support those who have experienced trauma in their lives, but how do we do that without taking on that trauma ourselves? Bridges for Communities find they are asked this question a lot, and it’s difficult to get the right balance in doing this.
In the video below, Katherine Cox, Director of Trauma Foundation South West, gives us ideas on how to achieve this balance, making our compassion more sustainable.
In the video, Katherine Cox explains the consequence of losing yourself as you step too far into someone else’s experience: you end up becoming distressed yourself, and then are no longer in a good position to help. Conversely, if you step too far away, you lose the ability to care effectively for the other person. Getting this balance right not only helps the person who is struggling, but according to Katherine, it also causes your own brain to produce oxytocin, so you feel good from the interaction too.
The tips Katherine shares are important to be aware of if you are working or volunteering with people who have experienced trauma, but may also be very helpful to know when supporting loved ones through very difficult times.
Please share this video with any friends, family members, or colleagues who might find it helpful.
If you would like to donate to the work of Bridges for Communities, you can do so here.
He has shown you, O mortal, what is good.
And what does the Lord require of you?
To act justly and to love mercy
and to walk humbly with your God.
(Micah 6:8)
