TBRI Tip #21: Support Groups

Sometimes we feel like we need some support in what we’re doing, especially when parenting a child from a hard place. Often others best intentions to offer guidance doesn’t help when your child’s brain is wired so differently than their trauma-free child’s. Kids with trauma have to be parented differently and intentionally, for them to heal and get back on their appropriate developmental trajectory. But it can be hard to find other caregivers like yourself to share with and learn from. We can feel alone in our struggles and may even blame ourselves for “not getting it right” with the kids in our care. This can be doubly draining as we beat up on ourselves AND try to take care of a child with behavioral and emotional meltdowns. It’s a downward spiral that’s hard to break out of. That’s why it’s so important to take care of ourself and get support. I believe one of the most effective ways, even in our virtual times, is a Support Group. Support Groups remind you you’re not alone, that there are other caregivers right now struggling too. They offer real solutions from other parents who may have already dealt with what you’re going through. Support Groups offer the connection that we need to thrive as people. Lastly, a Support Group provides education by learning each week about how you can be more effective in your parenting.