A History of the Term “PTSD”
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) has come a long way throughout history to become what we understand about it now. This term was initially rooted in trying to dismiss and minimize the impact of trauma and has transformed to what is currently stated in the DSM-5-TR. It’s important we listen and integrate the perspectives of those with lived-experience so we, as providers, can understand the depth of PTSD.
By the end of this lesson you should understand where PTSD started and where it is today, the consequences of trauma on the body, and how being trauma-informed can support an individual with PTSD.
Emily Robinson is the Policy Coordinator and creator of the Avery Seal Evaluation Process with the Avery Seal for Research and Services. They have received three years of training in master’s level counseling psychology coursework and as a lived experience expert has provided consultations to organizations such as Polaris, Dressember, Roller Skate to Liberate and Survivor Alliance. With over 10 years of experience in the Anti-Human Trafficking Movement, they have performed research, program evaluation, and participated in advisory boards and panels. As a lived experience expert in familial, cult, labor trafficking and the sex industry they offer a unique perspective on the multilayered experiences of exploitation, complex PTSD, and evaluation. Their passion is focused on research and program evaluation to help reduce client harm and increase the trauma informed health and growth of organizations.