UNDERSTANDING POST-TRAUMATIC GROWTH AND NEURODIVERSITY

Neurodiversity recognizes and respects neurological differences as any other human variation. These differences, while presenting unique challenges, also hold the potential for significant personal growth and contribution to society.?

Did you know that...

• approximately 70% of the world’s population has been exposed to a traumatic life event (Benjet et al., 2016, Kessler et al., 2017)???
• 3/4 of adults over age 65 have experienced at least one traumatic event during their lifetime, and depending on the definition of a traumatic event, the figure may be even higher (Mills et.al. 2011)?

But did you also know that...

“30-70% of individuals who experience trauma also report positive change and growth”?- Joseph and Butler, 2010?

Our recently published introductory guide to Post Traumatic Growth?captures the positive psychological changes experienced amidst or after struggles with highly challenging life circumstances.?PTG is the

“experience of individuals whose development, at least in some areas, has surpassed what was present before the struggle with crises occurred. The individual has not only survived, but has experienced changes that are viewed as important, and that go beyond the status quo” (Tedeschi and Calhoun, 2004).?

Our response to adversity

PTG comes with multidimensional changes in the belief system, life goals, and self-identity. It is constructive and mindful as it helps us stay grounded and focus on what is happening now rather than dwelling in the past.?When adversity strikes, people often feel that at least some part of themselves, be it their views of the world, their sense of themselves, and significant relationships, are shattered. Those who try to put their lives back together exactly as they were remain fractured, pained, and vulnerable, but those who accept the breakage and build themselves anew become more resilient and open to new ways of living.?

It’s not TOXIC POSITIVITY

PTG is not about ignoring the pain, fear, or shock of what's happened to you, and carrying on regardless. It doesn't remove distress, so people experience both pleasant and unpleasant emotions as they grow.

The relevance of PTG in neurodiversity work lies in its empowering perspective. Instead of viewing neurological differences solely through a deficit lens, focusing on PTG allows individuals and communities to recognize and cultivate the strengths and unique abilities that can emerge from navigating life's challenges. For many neurodivergent individuals, the journey through stigma, misunderstanding,and self-discovery can lead to profound insights, resilience, and innovation. Emphasizing PTG shifts the narratives from surviving to thriving, highlighting the contributions and potentials of neurodivergent individuals rather than just the obstacles they face.

Dimensions of PTG

Rather than simply returning to a baseline level of functioning, individuals experiencing PTG undergo a transformation that can lead to a significant shift in their life perspective and personal growth. This concept, deeply explored in psychological studies, outlines several dimensions contributing to this transformative process.

Our co-founder Lana Kristine Jelenjev wrote a 16 page guide that explores the different dimensions of Post Traumatic Growth.

You can download the guide for free here:

https://www.neurodiversityeducationacademy.org/product-page/understanding-post-traumatic-growth-and-neurodivergence

WHAT’S NEXT?

JOIN OUR FREE MONTHLY LEARN & CONNECT COMMUNITY GATHERINGS

You can also join us for our upcoming community gathering on April 26 that introduces Post Traumatic Growth and the dimensions of PTG. Secure your free spot here

https://www.neurodiversityeducationacademy.org/event-details/community-gathering-understanding-post-traumatic-growth

DOWNLOAD OUR NEW FREE TOOLS

Check out our latest free resource on Practicing Neuroinclusive Listening. You can download it here

https://www.neurodiversityeducationacademy.org/product-page/practicing-neuroinclusive-listening

If you are interested in supporting this work by translating our resources in your own language, do let Lana Kristine Jelenjev know. We would love for this work to be accessible in different languages!

SUPPORT OUR ADVOCACY

We are able to provide these resources, tools and learning sessions through voluntary work. For individuals with expendable income, donations are welcome and can support us in providing our work to more parents, educators, organizations and communities specially for marginalized sectors. If you are interested in bringing Neurodiversity Awareness and Advocacy to your schools, companies or organizations please do contact us directly.