Stated simply, resilience transforms potentially toxic stress into tolerable stress. In the final analysis, resilience is rooted in both the physiology of adaptation and the experiences we provide for children that either promote or limit its development. (National Scientific Council on the Developing Child 2015).
Many great efforts are occurring around Oregon and the United States to understand trauma, resilience and healing, including some amazing partnerships right here in Jefferson County! BestCare Prevention has created a framework to identify the good work we're already doing and what steps we need to take to build upon the existing resilience within our youth, our families, and our community.
We have identified the following key components:
— We are committed to addressing trauma across the lifespan in Jefferson County;
— An effective coalition exists to create and support Trauma Resilience;
— Equitable programming is valued because it fits our perceived need and capacity;
— Quality of care (research-based efforts) is a shared value; and
— There is adequate capacity and commitment of resources to provide training, implementation, technical support, and
accountability in practices.
Based on the work of Kenneth Ginsburg, M.D., M.S. Ed, we believe:
— Youth live up or down to our expectations. We have high standards.
— Youth come for the content, but the context is what heals.
— Youth are experts in their own lives.
— Youth are the very best teachers for youth.
— Youth are capable of healing.
— Almost everything we fear about adolescent behavior (suicide, bullying, drugs, alcohol, sex, etc.) is about youth reacting to a world
that feels stressful to them.
We begin with the following building blocks:
― Competence: When we notice what young people are doing right and give them opportunities to develop important skills, they
feel competent. We undermine competence when we don't allow young people to recover themselves after a fall.
― Confidence: Young people need confidence to be able to navigate the world, think outside the box, and recover from challenges. ― Connection: Connections with other people, schools, and communities offer young people the security that allows them to stand
on their own and develop creative solutions.
― Character: Young people need a clear sense of right and wrong and a commitment to integrity.
― Contribution: Young people who contribute to the well-being of others will receive gratitude rather than condemnation. They will
learn that contributing feels good and may, therefore, more easily turn to others, and do so without shame.
― Coping: Young people who possess a variety of healthy coping strategies will be less likely to turn to dangerous quick fixes when
stressed.
― Control: Young people who understand privileges and respect are earned through demonstrated responsibility will learn to make
wise choices and feel a sense of control.
While our efforts are focused on efforts in Jefferson County and for Jefferson County, we support other efforts in Central Oregon, including those of TRACES and Trauma Informed Oregon. If you would like more information, please Contact Us!