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Managing traumatic memories
SAID ALOUD
Managing traumatic memories
Aim . To show symbolically , using visual tools , how a person can be helped to identify , manage and eventually weaken traumatic memories .
Trainer . What replies did the Butterfly Woman receive from the helper ? “ I see that you suffer . I know this is so difficult . I know that all your reactions are natural and that what happened to you is abnormal and insane . You are a survivor , standing here in front of me ! I see you and I listen to you and I know there is a way out . I can show you a way out !”
PART II : THE TRAINING
[ The Trainer points to Figure 3 , the Butterfly Woman immediately after the trauma , and Figure 4 , the Butterfly Woman experiences triggers and flashbacks some time after the trauma .]
When you are the helper , you can ask a survivor whether she recognises herself in the Butterfly Woman . You can help her to see and understand that the Butterfly Woman is behaving in a manner that is normal and can be expected in this situation .
[ The Trainer draws Figure 5 , the Butterfly Woman gradually healing , and adds an antenna to the left side of the Butterfly Woman ’ s head .]
When the Butterfly Woman makes contact with even the smallest good memory , she will gain strength . If we search actively and find old resources and new resources , we build our strength , here and now . It is important to focus on such resources to build mental and physical strength . The strength that we build is like an inner wall inside us that protects us from trauma-memories and helps us to control them when they are wakened or aroused ( triggered ).
[ The Trainer focuses on the Butterfly Woman ’ s body , and draws a line between her body and the wing that carries her trauma memories .]
Trauma memories are wakened through the senses and it is through the senses – of smell , touch , hearing , taste , and sight – that we can recover our strength and restore our ability to live now , in the present , and experience being safe again .
[ The Trainer draws a second antenna , on the right .]
The Butterfly Woman must grow new memories that stretch into the future . To build new hope , she must recall her old plans and longings , and find new dreams .
[ The Trainer notes these points on the body as she speaks . She marks safe ground under the Butterfly Woman ’ s feet .]