Surviving and Thriving: Supporting Caregivers

Research and publications from several sources will bring together key understandings that will address topics such as stigma, grief and loss, trauma, and aggression toward caregivers. This includes research completed by Dr. Dorothy Badry on grief and loss associated with caring for individuals with FASD which can be generalized to other disabilities and mental health disorders. In addition, a recent report from the National Consortium on aggression toward family/caregivers in childhood & adolescence (AFCCA) will lend further insight. Understanding these concepts may allow clinicians to better recognize stress responses and the unique needs of caregivers. These may include resistance to following treatment plans, anger and frustration, lethargy, etc. 

This training will explore how adjusting expectations, peer support, grief and loss work and being trauma informed can build up caregivers so they in turn can care for their loved ones. Taking stress and trauma into consideration and addressing it can increase better outcomes for children, youth, and families.

Compassion fatigue and vicarious trauma will be explored using neuroscience research to better understand the impact on caregiver well-being and how trauma-informed care can support families using the philosophical underpinnings and 6 principles and 10 standards of trauma-informed care.

Learning Outcomes

Recognize how stress, trauma, and grief and loss effect those caring for children and youth with complex needs. 
Examine issues of child on parent aggression, grieving a diagnosis, vicarious trauma, and how these negative experiences shape caregiver perspectives. 
Explore interventions that are helpful for caregivers (e.g., Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Peer Support, etc.)
Discuss how adjusting expectations and specific interventions can decrease stress for caregivers.