Introducing Rayan Anton, a queer, trans masculine Palestinian Arab with a Master of Social Worker degree from the University of Toronto. Rayan's professional journey centers around mental health, addictions, sexual health, and supporting 2SLGBTQ and newcomer communities. Currently a Therapist at Planned Parenthood Toronto, Rayan actively leads workshops and trainings to bolster the ability of families, schools, and organizations to better support trans, non-binary, and gender non-conforming youth.
In this article, Rayan spills the tea on breaking generational trauma. Grab your chamomile tea, and get ready as we navigate the steps and reflections required for healing, guided by Rayan's unique touch in challenging the cycle of generational trauma:
Breaking generational trauma begins with acknowledging its impact on our families and communities. We have to be aware enough of our story, history, and identity in order to properly reflect on its impact.
Before anything else, to facilitate healing, individuals require time, space, resources, and support. However, for SWANA (South West Asian and North African) people, attaining these essentials is like trying to catch your cat’s attention. We’ve been through endless hardships like displacement, systemic racism, have all felt the subtle, sometimes not to subtle, weight of internal community pressures.
Creating a sanctuary of both physical and psychological safety is the VIP ticket to healing. Once that haven is locked in, it's time to kick off the challenge against the cycle of generational trauma. It commences with an honest examination of ingrained patterns, attitudes, and narratives inherited from our families. Dive deep into your family's archives, exploring those ingrained patterns, attitudes, behaviours, identities, and tales they hand down to us like heirlooms. It's a bit like unraveling a vintage mystery but with a touch of emotional couture. Only after this sophisticated dive can you elegantly shake up those patterns in a way that harmonizes with your true essence. It's a personal revolution.
A crucial aspect involves questioning personal values and aligning attitudes and actions accordingly. This self-reflection prompts a transformative process, offering strength and peace even when steering away from familiar paths. It's about understanding how changes contribute to personal growth and well-being, ultimately breaking free from the shackles of generational trauma.
Further Readings and resources: