PAUL

UNHEALED WOUNDS IN THE COLLECTIVE CONSCIOUSNESS: A REFLECTION OF OUR TIMES IN TODAY’S GLOBAL LANDSCAPE, COLLECTIVE UNHEALED WOUNDS SIGNIFICANTLY SHAPE SOCIAL, CULTURAL, AND POLITICAL REALITIES. THESE WOUNDS ARE NOT MERELY INDIVIDUAL GRIEVANCES; THEY ARE DEEP-SEATED TRAUMAS AND UNRESOLVED ISSUES EMBEDDED IN THE COLLECTIVE PSYCHE.

This phenomenon manifests in ongoing struggles with systemic injustices, environmental crises, and widespread feelings of division and unrest. Crucially, these wounds also encompass issues related to gender and sexuality, reflecting a profound need for recognition, understanding, and healing. When I refer to ‘collective consciousness,’ I’m talking about the shared attitudes, beliefs, and morals that act as the ‘social glue’ holding a group together. This collective set of norms dictates what is considered right, wrong, appropriate, true, and how we relate to each other and make sense of the world.

It’s fascinating to think that these shared ideas and beliefs are not purely individual but part of a collective force shaped by our society’s history, stories, and accessible information. The current explosion of information challenges us as a global society, bringing both inspiration from new knowledge and technologies, and a heightened awareness of complex, interconnected problems. This duality leaves us navigating unprecedented awareness and challenges, with a clearer view of both our potential and the obstacles we face. The expansion of our collective consciousness is causing societal division and turmoil, revealing deep-seated issues. As we face this crisis, the “social glue” that once held us together is weakening, leaving many overwhelmed. Some avoid the chaos, others watch passively, and some struggle with anxiety, feeling compelled to act but unsure of the way forward.

This turmoil stems from the challenge of processing vast amounts of information, leading to disillusionment, polarisation, and political violence. It disrupts communities and families, highlighting a need for new skills and support systems to navigate these complexities.

Present Manifestations

Please note, this column is the opinion of the columinst and not that of GNI or Romeo & Julian Publiccations Ltd.

Women have long faced collective trauma from centuries of disenfranchisement, sexual violence, and exclusion from public life. Persistent gender pay gaps, underrepresentation in leadership, and reinforcing gender stereotypes highlight the ongoing struggle for equality. The recent vile media treatment of Imane Khelif at the 2024 Olympics has highlighted the struggles that women are challenged with. Resistance to gender equality and LGBTQIA+ rights, including anti-gender movements, reflects ongoing societal struggles. These movements often defend traditional values against modern understandings of gender and sexuality. The Israeli-Palestinian conflict deeply influences global consciousness, shaping perspectives on justice, self- determination, and peace. It symbolises broader struggles for justice and the international community’s ability to resolve conflicts. The lack of a lasting peace agreement fuels disillusionment with international diplomacy and conflict resolution, reflecting broader concerns about justice and human rights.

In the UK, current racial attacks significantly impact collective consciousness, affecting societal attitudes and policies. Media coverage amplifies these issues, shaping perceptions of race, diversity, and inclusion.

The Role of Media and Communication

In the digital age, the media plays a significant role in both highlighting and perpetuating these collective wounds. Social media platforms have become arenas where these issues are discussed, debated, and, at times, distorted. While these platforms can help bring awareness to various causes, they can also amplify misinformation and deepen divisions. The phenomenon of echo chambers, where people are exposed primarily to information that reinforces their pre-existing beliefs, further entrenches societal divisions.

However, the media also has the power to foster empathy and understanding.

Documentaries, films, and literature that explore historical traumas and social injustices can help educate and open dialogues.

Healing Through Acknowledgment and Action

Healing these collective wounds requires acknowledgment, dialogue, and action.

Acknowledgment means recognizing the pain and trauma that certain groups have endured. Dialogue involves creating spaces for open and honest conversations about these issues. It means listening to the voices of those who have been marginalised and oppressed, and taking their experiences seriously. Action, however, is the most critical step. It involves implementing policies and practices that address systemic issues and promote justice and equity. Healing is an ongoing process that requires sustained commitment from individuals, communities, and governments alike.

A Path Forward

This moment of heightened awareness could be a crucial opportunity for growth, not a downfall. By embracing both intellectual and emotional complexity, we can guide this transformation constructively. Collective healing, as a part of this process, can help us turn current challenges into opportunities, suggesting that we have the tools needed to adapt and evolve. Only by facing these wounds head-on can we hope to create a world that truly reflects our shared values of justice, equity, and compassion.

Paul McAllister- Aho Wellness

IG: aho_wellness

Facebook: aho.wellness.belfast

Email: wellness.aho@gmail.com