The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

This is an important day that recognizes the devastating impact of residential schools on Indigenous communities in Canada. Instituted as a federal statutory holiday in Canada starting in 2021, it falls on September 30th each year. This day provides an opportunity for reflection, understanding, and education about the history and ongoing effects of the residential school system, as well as to commemorate the survivors, their families, and those children who never made it home.

Residential schools, operated from the late 1800s to the late 20th century, were a part of an assimilation policy that aimed to eliminate First Nations, Inuit, and Métis culture. Thousands of Indigenous children were forcibly separated from their families and sent to these schools where they were often subjected to physical, emotional, and sexual abuse. Many children died while attending these schools, and their deaths were not properly documented, and often their families were not informed.

The day encourages individuals to learn about this dark chapter in Canadian history, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) that shed light on it, and the 94 Calls to Action the TRC set forth to redress the legacy of residential schools.

Awareness, understanding, and action towards reconciliation are essential.

On this day, Canadians are urged to educate themselves, to remember, and to move forward in a spirit of reconciliation and respect.

The residential school system in Canada has left a profound and traumatic legacy on its Indigenous survivors and their communities. Many of the children who attended these schools were subjected to physical, emotional, and sexual abuse, cultural erasure, neglect, and many other forms of mistreatment. This traumatic experience has resulted in a range of psychological and emotional issues for many survivors, including PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder).

The effects of this trauma have not only impacted the individuals who directly experienced it but have also reverberated through generations, leading to a cascade of intergenerational trauma. Families and communities have been disrupted, cultural connections have been severed or weakened, and the pain has been passed down.

Recognizing and addressing the trauma caused by the residential school system is a critical part of the path towards reconciliation and healing in Canada. It’s essential to approach discussions and actions surrounding this issue with sensitivity, respect, and a genuine commitment to understanding and supporting Indigenous peoples in their journey of healing and recovery.

Intergenerational trauma, also known as transgenerational trauma, refers to trauma that is passed down through generations. When individuals experience trauma and do not or cannot address or heal from it, the effects can impact their behavior, worldview, and the environment in which they raise their children. Those children, in turn, might carry the weight of this trauma – even if they didn’t directly experience the traumatic events themselves.

In the context of residential school survivors, many Indigenous individuals were subjected to severe trauma, and the effects of that trauma have been felt deeply by subsequent generations. It’s manifested in various ways, including mental health issues, substance abuse, family dysfunction, loss of cultural identity, and more.

Addressing and healing the trauma of survivors is not only crucial for the well-being of the individuals directly impacted but also for the health and well-being of future generations. Healing helps to break the cycle of trauma, allowing individuals and communities to rebuild, reconnect with their cultural heritage, and move forward in a healthier and more positive way.

Supporting the healing journey of Indigenous communities is a shared responsibility, requiring concerted efforts from all sectors of society, as well as recognition and respect for Indigenous knowledge, healing practices, and cultural traditions.

Meghan Laycock, a therapist at “The PTSD Solution,” carries a profound familial tie to the traumatic legacy of residential schools through her Great Grandmother. As a member of the Metis Nation, her personal connection offers a unique perspective into the depth and nature of Indigenous transgenerational trauma. This direct understanding, combined with her professional training, positions her to provide specialized and empathetic care to clients with PTSD, especially those grappling with the effects of intergenerational trauma from the residential school system.

Therapists with firsthand knowledge of specific traumas, like Meghan, can deeply resonate with and comprehend the intricate nuances and emotional complexities faced by their clients. This alignment of personal experience and professional expertise not only emphasizes the significance of both aspects in addressing profound issues like PTSD but also cultivates a heightened sense of trust, validation, and safety for clients. The result is a more profound therapeutic connection that can lead to potentially more effective healing outcomes.

Healing PTSD clients with the use of Reconsolidation Therapy with Propranolol by “The PTSD Solution” signifies a specialized form of therapy that has been successful in treating PTSD. Propranolol is a beta-blocker often used for heart conditions but has been explored in the context of traumatic memories, potentially diminishing the emotional intensity of the memories when recalled.

In White Rock, B.C., there’s a beacon of hope for those grappling with the shadows of PTSD, particularly among the Indigenous community. Meghan Laycock, with her deep-rooted connection to the Metis Nation and a keen understanding of the residential school system’s impact, stands ready at “The PTSD Solution” to offer specialized support. Drawing from both her personal history and rigorous professional training, she provides an environment where clients can feel genuinely understood and supported, bridging the gap between clinical expertise and cultural sensitivity.

If you or someone you know within the Indigenous community is battling the scars of PTSD, remember, there’s strength in seeking help, and healing is a journey best embarked upon with someone who truly understands.

“Walking hand in hand towards healing” –

Meghan invites you to take that vital step towards reclaiming peace and well-being.

Your story, your strength, and your healing matter.

Reach out today.