According to most psychologists, individual trauma results from an event, series of events or set of circumstances that is experienced by an individual either physically or emotionally and that can have lasting adverse effects on the individual’s functioning and physical, social, emotional well-being.
In low-income nations, there is a general dearth of awareness about disability and particularly the variables that are linked to it. The general inclusion of persons with disabilities is still very low and this causes a lot of obstacles for persons living with disabilities. Access to basic services such as education, health and other needs are actually a challenge to most. This alone continuously causes stress, tension and eventually trauma. A traumatized child may experience a variety of feelings both right away and years later. They could struggle to digest their sensations or feel overpowered, helpless, stunned or overwhelmed. Physical symptoms can also be a result of trauma.
Zimbabwe Parents of Handicapped Children Association (ZPHCA) facilitated retreat camps for traumatized children with disabilities and caregivers of children with disabilities. The objectives of the retreat camps were to provide a safe space where they can engage in play and recreational activities. Parents and caregivers engaged in singing competitions, modelling, dancing. In addition, there were group counselling sessions where they share experiences and offered each other advice (peer to peer counselling).
The program managed to offer a safe place where children could share anything they want. There are non-judgmental hence participants were opening up. Peer to peer counseling interactive discussions where children opened themselves to get comfort from other children.
