Psychiatry FREDDIE AWARD WINNER (gold) Surviving Trauma and Tragedy Michigan Victim Alliance East Lansing, MI Summary: This program reminds us that those who endure human cruelty have lives of dignity and meaning--even though they were mistreated by perpetrators and on occasion, by professionals and by family. Four extraordinary survivors tell their stories with candor and courage: all demonstrate a deep commitment to helping other survivors.

Nader, K. (2008). Understanding and assessing trauma in children and adolescents: Measures, Methods, and Youth in Context. New York: Routledge. Every year many millions of children in and outside of the United States are exposed to natural and manmade disasters, mass or individual violence, severe deprivation, animal attacks, or severe accidents. Youths’ posttraumatic reactions have been associated with biological and biochemical changes such as brain injury and the dysregulation of impulses and emotions; cognitive changes including attentional, attitudinal, and behavioral response biases; and behavioral changes (e.g., isolation, aggression, self-harm). Unresolved traumatic reactions may seriously derail a youth’s life trajectory including a youth’s life choices; task, work, or academic performance; relationships; life satisfaction; and much more. Unresolved childhood traumas have been identified in the histories of violent criminals such as mass murderers, serial killers, and high security prison inmates as well as in incarcerated youths. Adults with psychiatric disorders have more frequently reported a history of childhood adversities than other adults. These findings underscore the need for accurate identification of youths’ traumatic reactions. Understanding and Assessing Trauma in Children and Adolescents provides (1) an understanding of the effects of traumatic experiences on youths, (2) consideration of important differences in traumatic reactions for youths in contrast to adults, (3) an elaboration of the issues relevant to assessing youths with direct and indirect traumatic exposures, (4) summaries of variables important to the evaluation of children such as attachment, culture, personality, gender, and resilience factors, (5) a description of the measures available for assessing traumatic effects and associated aspects of youths and their environments, and (6) a discussion of the additional disorders (comorbidity) and symptoms that may follow childhood or adolescent traumatization. Specialization permits us to learn well a field such as childhood trauma. Especially for children, it is also important to recognize aspects of personal background, growth, development, traits, and mental health that contribute to their reactions and recovery. The book details the current understanding of simple and complex childhood traumatic reactions, research findings, and measures of assessment for trauma and other youth behaviors, qualities, and symptoms. Symptoms in addition to PTSD are discussed including aggression, dissociation, and information processing disturbances.

17 minute version of "When Helping Hurts: Preventing & Treating Compassion Fatigue." Useful for individuals, workshops and classroom settings. Available in VHS or DVD $30.00.

New DVD now available: Surviving Trauma & Tragedy: Lessons For Future Physicians & Mental Health Professionals

A Profile of Gift From Within is featured in Paradigm Magazine paradignBoaz-11.pdf Paradigm Magazine

Now Available: Resiliency After Violent Death: Lessons For Caregivers The purpose of this program is to provide clinicians, social workers, clergy and caregivers engaged in long term support with families after a violent death, helpful strategies to diminish the emotional distress of violent dying bereavement.

New DVD/Video: Survival From Domestic Violence: Stories of Hope and Healing This film presents stories of women who transformed their lives after living through domestic violence. The steps they took to create safety, build a support system and find independence are described. Through their first hand accounts they give other victims hope that healing and recovery is possible. Part of the proceeds go to the Women's MH Task Force in Sandy, Utah.

Questions & Answers With Dr. Frank Ochberg Dear Friends: Every month I will ask Dr. Frank Ochberg a PTSD related question. These are questions based on conversations I've had with Gift From Within Support Pals, and other trauma survivors. I hope you find this exchange helpful. Please check back often.

NEWS:"Heroes Unsung," a musical tribute from Gift From Within and Music For The Soul Foundation was sung live during National Police Week in May 2003 in Washington, D.C. Part of the proceeds from CD sales will be donated to the FOP Auxiliary. The CD is available at https://secure2.tallent.com/music/store/store.aspx. Individuals and distributors may contact Steve Siler at silerland@comcast.net for ordering information.

listen to Steve Siler's song "Renee Is Fourteen" Word Music,Inc./ Fifty States Music ASCAP Recording supplied by Music For The Soul, Inc.     - for low speed connection (28kbps)     - for high speed connection (64kbps)

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