Intergenerational trauma is the idea that the effects of extreme stress can be passed on to the next generation, or even further. This idea has been a bit of a lightning rod because the interpretation of results of human studies have been misinterpreted and oversimplified. Animal studies which have allowed an interrogation of biological mechanisms of transmission of trauma effects have provided intriguing models for exploration in people. However, even if mechanisms of intergenerational trauma could be clearly understand, there would be still be the question of how one interprets the phenomenon. It can be overwhelming to think that we not only have our own traumatic life experiences to deal with, but that also carry remnants of what our parents or ancestors suffered. But is that what the epigenetic findings are really suggesting? Discussions about epigenetics have reified the idea of intergenerational damage in much the same was as biological studies of trauma and PTSD have implicated long-term dysfunction. But in both cases, some of the biological changes occurring the context of enduring intergenerational effects and direct trauma effects might be adaptive.
In this presentation we will focus on understanding biological responses to trauma as the body changing nimbly to protect itself, in the moment, in the future, and for generations to come. This is one way to approach an understanding of resilience. It will be suggested that epigenetic changes are evidence not only of the reality that trauma effects linger, but that adaptation to trauma is also possible. We will consider how this knowledge can impact how we facilitate treatment for mental health effects associated with trauma and intergenerational trauma. In this context, treatment with psychedelic-assisted therapy may present a novel way of facilitating different narratives or perspectives on an individual level -- namely, that our histories are important and can be assimilated, and that we can use even traumatic experiences in a positive way. In the broader context, understanding that we carry our histories – the stories, the people who lived them, the developmental impact of the way the stories were told, and, the epigenetic changes that endured, might also provide the basis and mandate for positive social change.
Format
Recorded webinar, non-interactive, self-paced distance learning activity.
This presentation was recorded at the 2024 American Psychiatric Association Annual Meeting.
Learning Objectives
- To discuss adaptive mechanisms associated with biologic and epigenetic change and potential for positive social change through reframing intergenerational trauma.
- To discuss differences between animal and human studies in terms of their ability to provide mechanistic information about intergenerational trauma.
- To discuss epigenetic mechanisms and their relevance to understanding the effects of trauma and intergenerational effects of trauma.
- To discuss the role of through psychedelic-assisted therapy for trauma.
Target Audience
Medical Students, Residents/Fellows, Psychiatrists
Estimated Time to Complete
Estimated Duration: 1.5 hours
Begin Date: March 1, 2025
End Date: March 1, 2028
How to Earn Credit
Participants who wish to earn AMA PRA Category 1 Credit ™ or a certificate of participation may do so by completing all sections of the course including the evaluation. After evaluating the program, course participants will be provided with an opportunity to claim hours of participation and print an official CME certificate (physicians) or certificate of participation (non-physicians) showing the event date and hours earned.
Continuing Education Credit
In support of improving patient care, the American Psychiatric Association is jointly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), to provide continuing education for the healthcare team.
Physicians
The APA designates this enduring activity for a maximum of 1.50 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit ™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.
Faculty and Planner Disclosures
The American Psychiatric Association adheres to the ACCME’s Standards for Integrity and Independence in Accredited Continuing Medical Education. Any individuals in a position to control the content of a CME activity — including faculty, planners, reviewers or others — are required to disclose all relevant financial relationships with ineligible entities (commercial interests). All relevant conflicts of interest have been mitigated prior to the commencement of the activity.
Program Presenters
Program Planners
- Vishal Madaan, MD. Chief of Education and Deputy Medical Director, APA.
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Technical Requirements
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Optimal System Configuration:
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