The world has endured some major collective traumas in the recent past. From public health crises to economic recession and race-driven social unrest, we continuously face new challenges and events that test resilience. The resulting loss of life, livelihoods, and social cohesion deeply impacts society and leaves people feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and uncertain about the future.
The COVID pandemic has been the most significant global event in recent history. But it's not just the pandemic that has left people feeling traumatized. In the past few decades, natural disasters like hurricanes, wildfires, and earthquakes have increased. These events lead to casualties and destruction. Furthermore, they have displaced millions, leaving them homeless and without access to essential services.
The world is in turmoil. It may feel that each catastrophe cascades into the next while people are still struggling to make sense of the last. Here are some of the most significant collective traumas that society currently faces.
The COVID-19 pandemic
The novel human coronavirus COVID-19 was first reported in Wuhan, China, in late 2019. Subsequently, it spread rapidly throughout the world, resulting in 573 million cases, the loss of nearly 6.5 million lives, widespread panic, disruption, and an unnerving sense of uncertainty about the future.
The economic aftermath of the pandemic has been devastating, with businesses shutting down and millions of people losing their jobs. The social impact has also been significant, with governments forcing people to self-isolate and stay home for extended periods. This has led to increased levels of anxiety and depression, as well as a sense of loneliness and isolation.
The pandemic has also exacerbated pre-existing social tensions and inequities. For example, the disproportionate impact of the virus on Black and Brown communities has highlighted the systemic racism that exists in many societies. The pandemic has also had a negative effect on women, who have been unduly affected by job losses and increased domestic responsibilities.
Thankfully, the tireless work of health care workers, scientists, and others has resulted in the development of vaccines and worldwide vaccination programs. As a result, there is hope that the worst of the pandemic is behind us. However, its long-term consequences will be felt for decades to come.
Systemic racism
The killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis, USA, in May 2020 sparked massive protests against systemic racism and police brutality. The Black Lives Matter movement gained momentum, with people of all races taking to the streets to demand change.
The issue of systemic racism is a global problem. Black and Brown people have been subjected to discrimination and violence for centuries. The issue has come to the fore recently with the rise of the alt-right and white supremacist groups and has been intensified by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Systemic racism is a structural problem that requires systemic solutions. Society must dismantle the systems and institutions that perpetuate racism and bigotry and create a truly inclusive environment that provides equal opportunities for all.
Climate change
The far-reaching effects of climate change have been felt in every country. As a result, the polar ice caps are melting, and the sea is rising. Extreme weather is becoming more common with storms, hurricanes, and excessive rainfall in some regions leading to devastating floods and extended droughts in others, causing widespread food shortages.
These events have profound ramifications on society. They can lead to loss of life, damage to infrastructure, and displacement of people. In addition, the emotional impact of these events can be significant, with people often struggling to cope with the aftermath.
The burden of climate change is not evenly distributed. Developing countries and those least responsible for greenhouse gas emissions are often the most affected. This can lead to a sense of injustice and frustration, as well as feelings of powerlessness in the face of this international crisis.
Economic instability and inequality
The global economic system is in a state of flux, with rising levels of debt and inequality. In recent years, there have been a number of financial crises, including the collapse of the sub-prime mortgage market in the United States and the European sovereign debt crisis.
These events have led to increased economic insecurity and hardship for many people. They have also exposed the shortcomings of the current economic system, which is based on growth and consumption.
Income inequality has been rising, with the top 1% of earners taking home an increasingly large share of the pie. This has led to increased social tensions and a feeling of unfairness. The current economic system isn't sustainable and urgently needs reforms that allow for a more equitable distribution of wealth.
Gun violence
Gun violence is a major problem in many countries around the world. But unfortunately, mass shootings in schools, workplaces, and other public places have become all too common in the U.S. To date, in 2022, there have been 383 mass shootings, with almost 26,000 deaths attributed to gun violence.
Gun violence has a devastating bearing on society. It leads to pointless deaths and lasting psychological trauma for those who witness or survive these events and their family and friends. These events can also have a ripple effect on the wider community, leading to increased anxiety and fear. It also has an economic consequence of around $557 billion each year.
There is no one-size-fits-all solution to the complex problem of gun violence. Instead, countries must address the root causes, such as mental health issues, poverty, and social exclusion. They also need to tighten gun control laws such as background checks and bans on assault weapons.
Future directions
While the world is facing numerous challenges, they are not insurmountable. Policymakers must widen the availability of mental health support for communities, especially those most affected by trauma. There also needs to be a focus on prevention, with early intervention programs for children and young people at risk of mental health problems.
Addressing inequality is essential to creating a more just and sustainable world. This includes reducing economic inequality, combating racism, and protecting the rights of marginalized groups.
In doing so, the social fabric can be repaired, and people can feel more connected to their communities and have a sense of hope for the future.
Resources
WHO Coronavirus (COVID-19) Dashboard
The Algorithmic Rise of the “Alt-Right”
Consequences of climate change
The Economic Cost of Gun Violence | Everytown Research & Policy
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