Intergenerational trauma began to receive widespread attention in the 20th century, particularly in relation to understanding the aftermath of the Holocaust. It refers to the transmission of psychological and emotional consequences from one generation to the next after a traumatic event.
For instance, extensive research has explored the impact of the Holocaust on not only its survivors but also their descendants. The individual and community implications of intergenerational trauma are therefore profound. When one person experiences trauma, the effects may not only be limited to them but can extend to their children, perpetuating a dangerous cycle. The same is true as a community where when one generation struggles, the effects may be long-lasting throughout our communities.
Further, research shows that when a parent struggles with mental illness, such as anxiety, depression or trauma-related symptoms, the impact may be passed down to their offspring. Children of such parents are more likely to adopt maladaptive thinking patterns and behaviors, contributing to their own mental health challenges. However, this doesn’t mean all is lost to doom and gloom. If intergenerational trauma can be passed down, it stands to reason that so can intergenerational resilience.
The Power of Intergenerational Resilience
Intergenerational resilience, a concept that has also gained increasing attention in recent decades, refers to how families and communities endure and adapt to life’s challenges. When parents model healthy coping mechanisms and adaptive thinking, their children are more likely to adopt similar behaviors. In this way, resilience can be passed down through generations, creating a protective buffer against future adversity. Further, when community members are doing well, this suggests that the positive implications can be seen in future generations as well.
Attachment theory is another crucial area where intergenerational trauma and resilience manifest. Attachment refers to the quality of the bond between a caregiver and a child. Numerous studies have shown that when this attachment is disrupted, the child becomes more vulnerable to mental health and relationship struggles later in life. In contrast, a secure attachment, where the caregiver is seen as a reliable source of comfort and safety, is linked to better mental health and more positive relationship outcomes for the child.
Breaking the Cycle: Setting Individuals Up for Success
Now that we understand both intergenerational trauma and resilience can be passed from one generation to the next, the question becomes: How do we set individuals, our community members, up for success? How do we ensure that the positive aspects — the “good stuff” — are passed down in order to make way for a stronger community with more satisfied individuals?
One common approach to overcoming hardship is therapy. Therapy promotes emotional well-being, helps individuals address maladaptive thinking patterns, and improves self-esteem. In parent-child therapy, families can build healthier relationships, equipping children with tools they need to navigate future challenges. However, therapy can be expensive and the high cost often serves as a barrier, preventing families from accessing the support that would foster resilience.
The Role of Financial Stability and Community Support
This issue is both a personal and a community challenge. Financial stability is a significant resilience factor for families fortunate enough to have it, providing a safety net during unexpected events and ensuring access to necessary mental health resources. But what about those who lack that financial cushion? How do we support families who cannot afford mental health treatment? The answer lies in community support. When communities have greater access to resources, resilience grows. A community that fosters mental health care and emotional support can help individuals overcome barriers and build stronger, healthier relationships with one another.
Resources Available in Our Community
The Gemara teaches that whoever saves a single life is considered to have saved the whole world. I would argue that this concept extends beyond the physical life and includes helping individuals enhance their overall well-being. Offering support as someone navigates challenges and breaks harmful cycles is a profound form of assistance. It enables them to build resilience, which not only enhances their own life but can also positively influence the future generations that may be born from that individual.
However, accessing these much-needed services is often challenging, if not impossible, for many individuals who need them most. This struggle has been widely recognized by local professionals, who are actively working together to find ways to bridge this gap. In partnership with Project Ezrah, a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the well-being of individuals in Bergen County, we have launched Ezrah L’Nefesh — a mental health initiative aimed at improving access to care. Ezrah L’Nefesh serves as a resource to help individuals navigate the complexities of mental health services and make mental well-being a priority. By providing guidance and financial assistance, Project Ezrah empowers the community to break the cycle of intergenerational trauma and instead cultivate intergenerational resilience, ensuring that individuals can thrive now and for generations to come.
Currently, Ezrah L’Nefesh is working to raise funds to provide direct financial assistance to families struggling to afford critical mental health care. Additionally, we are continuing to compile a directory of mental health providers willing to offer discounted services to Project Ezrah families.
For more information, or to contribute to this initiative, contact [email protected] to donate or be added to our list of practitioners.
Emma Kirschner, Psy.D., is psychologist at My OCD Care/The Center for Child Behavioral Health. She specializes in working with individuals struggling with OCD, anxiety and mood disorders. Additionally, Dr. Kirschner works with parents and children on behavioral challenges utilizing evidence-based approaches such as SPACE, PCIT and PMT. Dr. Kirschner also serves as the chair of Ezrah L’Nefesh, helping individuals gain access to mental health treatment.
