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Trauma is trauma, mama. It’s not something that only affects mothers, but I’m addressing mums because I understand the unique stress that mothers of disabled or medically complex children can experience.
In our most recent podcast episode (Episode 85), we dive into the distinction between Post Traumatic Stress and Chronic Traumatic Stress. And is “Chronic Stress” even a thing? (YES, it is). But I’ll leave that for the podcast, but let’s get one thing straight – our kids are not the source of our trauma. Our kids are perfect, and we love them immensely. Trauma develops when we find ourselves powerless, watching them struggle to breathe, following an ambulance to the hospital, witnessing them choke, tumble down stairs, step into traffic, or endure a relentless seizure. It’s the fear and the hyper vigilance can be traumatic.
Many mamas live with anxiety from past traumatic experiences or from the anticipation of what could happen next. It’s a heavy load to carry. I’m not suggesting there’s a quick fix, but there is help out there.
The other day I was aimlessly scrolling through Instagram when I just couldn’t muster the motivation to be productive. But, my scrolling came to a halt when my friend’s face popped up. She was talking about free accessible talk therapy. It got my attention, but I was skeptical because, let’s be honest, nothing in life is truly free. However, I trust my friend’s judgment and decided to check it out for myself. At the very least, I thought it might be a useful resource I could discuss on the podcast.
After having a look, I signed up. I’ve only worked through the first module of a program individualized for me, but it seems to be the real deal. I’m looking forward to diving deeper!
Here’s how you can access two hours of virtual talk therapy and a subscription to online coach-assisted therapy (iCBT) – completely free, no strings attached:
- First, head to the GreenShield Cares’ Women’s Mental Health Program website. You don’t have to be a GreenShield plan member to sign up. This program is available to women aged 18 and over, offering two free hours of talk therapy sessions and a complimentary subscription to online coach-assisted therapy (iCBT).
- Once you’re on the site, click ‘Sign Up To Find A Personalized Therapist.’ This will take you to the Inkblot therapy website. Click ‘Find My Care Provider’ to set up your two free hours of talk therapy. I decided to skip the talk therapy and go directly to the coach assisted cognitive behavioural therapy program. To do that, click ‘Launch Tranquility’ to access the online coach-assisted therapy (also free). You’ll need to sign up again, as this is separate from your login for GreenShield.
- You’ll be prompted to answer some “get to know you” questions so your program can be tailored to your specific needs.
- Then you’ll be assigned a coach who will check in on your progress. Please keep in mind that your coach is not a therapist. They’ve been trained to support you through the program. You can reach out to your coach through the messaging function on the platform or by scheduling calls via phone or video through Zoom.
- With all the initial setup done, you’re all set to work through your personalized program at your own pace.
Give it a try, mama. You deserve support and the tools to help manage the anxiety and stress that goes along with being your child’s parent. You’re not alone, and there’s help.
aVERY BRIGHT LIFE Podcast Episode 85. CTSD or cPTSD…Trauma’s Trauma, Mama
It is good to ask for help. I always ask my teachers and my parents and my brother and my friends if I need help. It’s a smart thing to do. People help other people.
