Mental health articles

Dissociation and trauma Dissociation refers to a neurologically based protective mechanism of withdrawal or distancing from trauma. Dissociation has been described as a defence mechanism involving distancing or lack of integration of parts of consciousness. It is a mechanism employed in acute trauma in both adults and children and performs an important function of protecting […]

Infant oropharyngeal trauma Post-traumatic feeding disorder (PTFD) is diagnosed when food refusal follows trauma to the oropharynx or oesophagus, but it is not necessarily, or commonly, seen among groups of infants in whom it might be expected to occur, for example, infants with OA. This suggests that other factors, such as oro-motor dysfunction, hypersensitivity to […]

Experience of trauma during labour and delivery When labour and delivery are experienced as traumatic this can affect the initial interaction between mother and infant, particularly if the baby becomes associated with trauma and pain in the mother’s mind. Women with a past history of trauma or abuse are at risk of having these feelings […]

Current or unresolved conflict, trauma and loss There are implications for the infant–parent relationship if trauma and loss for the parent are not adequately resolved. This can include current circumstances, for example, intimate relationships characterised by conflict and violence or bereavement during pregnancy. Unresolved childhood or adolescent trauma or ongoing conflict with family members can […]

Past obstetric trauma or loss This includes previous miscarriage, termination, adoption or stillbirth, a history of traumatic labour and delivery, infants born with a disability or deformity, and, for some couples, prolonged infertility prior to conception. The loss of a baby, a miscarriage, abortion or infant relinquished for adoption or removed by child-protection services may […]

Trauma Informed In a trauma-informed approach, the impact of women’s previous experiences on their current well-being and functioning are recognized and respected. Experiences of violence and trauma may have lifelong effects on how women feel about themselves and in their relationships with others, including their children. Past experiences may shape a mother’s expectations for current and new experiences, […]