Trauma, Transformation and Healing

The information below has been provided as an aid to treatment professionals and the individual’s in their care with PTSD and other stress and trauma related issues. Our intent in providing this information is to give those unfamiliar with Native Traditional Ceremonies a foundation for understanding the psychological, physical and spiritual healing benefits.

PTSD DIMENSIONS AND DSM IV
Provided below is a list of produced criteria with corresponding changes in symptom cluster via purification ritual.

Criteria
Depression, search for meaning, identity diffusion (C)

Changes in Symptom Cluster via Purification Ritual
Reformation of the self, positive mood, enhanced sense of centering and identity

Criteria
Physical symptoms, memory impairment (B, D)

Changes in Symptom Cluster via Purification Ritual
Tension release, relaxation, awareness focused on internal states, ability to concentrate

Criteria
Stigmatization/alienation (C)

Changes in Symptom Cluster via Purification Ritual Sense of unity, bonding, community and continuity

Criteria
Anger/rage (b, D)

Changes in Symptom Cluster via Purification Ritual Inner Calmness, acceptance of fate, release of destructive thoughts

Criteria
Sensation seeking/hyper arousal (b, D)

Changes in Symptom Cluster via Purification Ritual
Creative channeling of need to enhance feeling of vitality

Criteria
Intrusive imagery/affective flooding (B, D)

Changes in Symptom Cluster via Purification Ritual
Reformation of reason to enter ritual, transformation of imagery in less distressing direction, emotional calm

Criteria
Intimacy conflict (B, D)

Changes in Symptom Cluster via Purification Ritual
Strong physical, psychological and spiritual bonding

Criteria
Isolation (C)

Changes in Symptom Cluster via Purification Ritual
Enhanced sense of unity, bonding which contravenes isolation and aloneness

Criteria
Emotional construction/avoidance (C)

Changes in Symptom Cluster via Purification Ritual
Emotionally expressive, reduced numbing, counter phobic tendency reduced, interpersonal trust

SOURCE: John Wilson in “Trauma and PTSD”

…Inside the Sweat it is a mysterious, spiritual place filled with song, drumming, prayer and a deep sense of belonging. It is a place where I can gather with my brothers and sisters and speak from my heart about where I have been and what demons still haunt my dreams. It is a place where old faces and misguided missions can be recalled and ancient pain can be soothed. But more, the Lodge is a place that I can share my strength for others as well. I am there for my healing and to assist others in their’s.

John, Vietnam Veteran