What is root shock?
People who have been displaced experience "root shock." Root shock is the traumatic stress reaction to the loss of some or all of one's emotional ecosystem. Root shock can follow natural disaster, development-induced displacement, war, and changes that play out slowly such as those that accompany gentrification. (www.rootshock.org)
When considering "root shock," I can't help but think about an elder or disabled person, who becomes a new resident at a nursing home. Afterall, to most nursing home residents, the nursing home is the last home they will ever live in. We all know, however, that a nursing home is NOT home. For many residents, this move impacts their health and quality of life.
Studies have compared living in a nursing home to homelessness. The elements of each were very similar. I'd suggest root shock is close in comparison as well. Today, many nursing homes are focused on moving from institutional to individualized practices.
I have really enjoyed getting to know Melissa this semester. Every time she speaks, it is with such passion and knowledge. Reading her story has reaffirmed something that I had picked up in our short time together; she is a hard-working, multi-talented, loving mother with the passion to pursue her degree and advance in her professional world.
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