In mediations and in life, if we are faced with continued, uncontrollable stress and trauma, we begin feeling helpless. If we are in that situation for an extended time, these feelings can lead to depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress. People begin to think there is no hope that things will get better.

In mediation, we see parties to the conflict who may feel like mediation won’t end the pain and suffering. The reason mediators need to have a strong opening statement is just to address and hopefully begin to allay those fears. However, the length of time that people have been in stress may cause these feelings of hopelessness to impact the reticence of parties to believe mediation might help.

When everyone is experiencing trauma, as is happening in the world today, it is important to acknowledge that we are all experiencing a sense of helplessness. We don’t know when the pandemic will end. We don’t know when the financial crisis that impacts the entire world will abate. Likewise, the issues surrounding race, diversity, and equity that are simmering if not exploding all over the globe, are equally distressing. If this weren’t enough, climate change, political instability, and grief beset us. We long for a safer world.

As peacemakers, we know that we need to help people realize they are in control, if only of their reactions and emotions. There is hope because we have come through crises before and emerged more resilient. If we can help those in conflict, and probably ourselves, develop self-compassion and empathy toward others going through much the same turmoil, we will not only resolve conflicts but will survive the traumas we are all experiencing.

Once these events are in the past, then the true healing will be needed. Peacemakers will be vital as we come together to make a better world.