Thread by @nc_clair

1/8 🧠#TraumaAwareness🧠: #Trauma impacts us in complex, multifaceted ways. Advancements in neuroscience tell us it's not just an emotional experience, but a deeply physiological one. Let's talk about why we need to acknowledge this, even within religious contexts. #evangelicals

2/8 Understanding #trauma means understanding the brain. Neuroplasticity shows our experiences, including trauma, literally reshape our brains. It's not 'all in your head,' it's 'also in your brain.' This isn't a matter of faith or opinion, it's established science. #evangelicals

3/8 Dismissing the physiological reality of #trauma undermines the survivor's experience. It can lead to victim blaming, encouraging sufferers to 'pray it away', 'have more faith', 'self control'. This not only fails to address the problem but can compound the pain. #evangelicals

4/8 Within a religious context, ignoring the reality of #trauma can be especially harmful. It creates a disconnect between the spiritual guidance being offered and the tangible, physical experience of trauma. This leaves survivors feeling isolated and misunderstood. #evangelicals

5/8 Faith can be a powerful source of comfort and resilience, but it can't replace or dismiss scientific understanding. They can coexist. A faith community that embraces the science of #trauma can better support survivors, acknowledging their experience in its entirety.

6/8 It's important to remember - #trauma isn't a spiritual failing. It's a human experience. It's okay to get help. This help may come from various sources: therapy, counseling, support groups, and yes, even your faith community, when it is #traumainformed. #evangelicals

7/8 If you or someone you know is struggling with #trauma, reach out to a #mentalhealth professional. They can help you navigate this journey, understand your feelings, and provide tools for healing. Remember, it's okay to combine faith and science in your healing process.

8/8 We can build a world where faith and #trauma neuroscience coexist to foster healing. Let's encourage our religious communities to be #traumainformed, to embrace the science, and to provide the comprehensive support that trauma survivors need. #FaithAndScience #TraumaHealing