The most powerful mental health intervention that we know
“The parent-child connection is the most powerful mental health intervention known to mankind.” That’s what trauma-specialist and best-selling author, Dr Bessel van der Kolk tell us. It’s obvious when you come to think of it, but many of don’t.
Dr van der Kolk’s lifetime of research, writing, teaching and practice provides the evidence. In his book, sometimes tragic detail, he shows how The Body Keeps the Score,
His continuing work and publication focuses on the interaction of attachment, neurobiology, and developmental aspects of trauma’s effects on people. He applies that knowledge to understand and help people build resilience. They can benefit from therapy that is based on the parent-child connection that follows us through life.
It’s the most powerful mental health intervention that we know. His book is published in 36 languages.
Being able to feel safe with other people is probably the single most important aspect of mental health. Safe connections are fundamental to meaningful and satisfying lives.
The image of the wave at the top is the work of artist: Barry Ross Smith
Better than a cure
This is common knowledge, but we sometimes forget it. When families separate, for example. The knowledge and skills that Dr Bessel van der Kolk describes can go further than helping people after they’ve suffered. Better than a cure is raised awareness, effective support and early intervention for children and their families. That’s because the parent-child connection is the most powerful mental health intervention that we know.
