Lesson topics and descriptions
(All material has been translated into Ukrainian)
1. Scripture and Traumatic Stress
God's Word is not silent on the psychological stressors caused by combat or in life.
4. Defining Moral Injury
Combat produces a complexity of encounters that can violate deeply held beliefs in addition to posttraumatic stress.
7. Defining Post-Traumatic Growth
Posttraumatic Growth (PTG) can provide a pathway for one to experience positive growth after a traumatic event.
10. Integrated Approach to Care: Mind, Body, and Soul
A true holistic approach to care must embrace the entire person as made in God’s image.
13. Forgiveness and Hope
Forgiveness is a challenging topic for Christians but very important in moving forward while hope for lasting growth is found in the person and work of Jesus Christ.
2. Defining Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Combat changes everyone, but some soldiers can develop lasting symptoms that dysregulate their return to life after war.
5. Christians and Warfare
The debate about Christians honorably serving in the military is very important regarding soul care.
8. Renewing Identity and Purpose
The military lifestyle creates a unique and strong identity and purpose. Transitioning out of military service can be challenging as veterans can experience a loss of identity and purpose.
11. Spiritual Disciplines and Discipleship
Spiritual disciplines are critically important to our spiritual growth as the children of God and can promote significant growth after trauma.
14. The Importance of Quality Sleep
Trauma can disrupt quality sleep which further impacts a veteran’s mental, social, and physical health. It is important to take active measures to regain a quality sleep cycle for Posttraumatic Growth.
16. The Church and Mental Health Care
The local church is important and needed today in the care of those suffering from mental health issues.
3. Defining Secondary Traumatic Stress
Soldiers are not the only ones who suffer from the effects of the war as spouses and children are susceptible to developing symptoms of psychological stressors.
6. Military Training: Transforming Civilians into Soldiers
Military service involves conditioning and training to prepare the soldier’s mind and body for the rigors of war.
9. The Church and Trauma-Informed Discipleship
Members of a local church can and should be engaged in trauma-informed care as part of the church's outreach and discipleship process.
12. Suicide Awareness and Prevention
Understanding suicidal ideation and the steps to help prevent suicide.
15. Neuroscience: New and Needed
Neuroscience is a field of study that Christians should explore and be aware of while maintaining a primacy view of Scripture.
Note: With prior notification, lessons can be combined or modified for time and or the audience. Each presentation is approximately 45 minutes with group interaction and questions. When using a translator, plan for twice as much time for each presentation.
New lessons coming
Digging into Post-Traumatic Growth: Vulnerability and Strength
Self-deception can drive combat veterans to hide behind masks to protect their vulnerability while ignoring just how strong they truly are.
The Unintentional Influence of Higher Life Theology in Caring for Those Who Struggle
Christians can unintentionally embrace spiritual-sounding teachings like “Let Go and Let God,” which can cause additional shame, guilt, and suffering among those struggling with mental health care issues.