Life is hard. Even if you have your entire day planned out, you never really know what to expect. It's filled with a lot of unknowns, unpredictable moments and a ton of ups and downs along the way. While a majority of your life may be happy, stress-free and exciting, there can be moments of high stress, challenges and negative life experiences.
These negative experiences can occur from losing a loved one, abuse or growing up in a not-so-ideal environment. When these adverse life experiences leave a long-lasting impact on a person, this is what's known as trauma. Trauma stays with someone, even long after the trauma has passed. This is where trauma-informed care comes into play. Let's learn more about trauma-informed care and how it can help.
What Is Trauma-Informed Care?
Trauma-informed care is a holistic approach to healthcare that acknowledges the impact that past and present traumatic events and experiences have on an individual's overall mental health and wellness. It understands that a person can be struggling because of the things they've gone through, not because there's something wrong with them. This form of care creates a safe, secure, trusting and supportive environment that can help facilitate the healing process for individuals who are navigating the aftermath of trauma.
How Does It Help
Helps People Feel Safer
Trauma-informed care helps people feel emotionally and physically safe. With trauma, even little things can be triggers. Being touched without warning, loud noises or bright lights are all considered and avoided.
Builds Better Relationships
This form of care also builds trust through caregivers who listen and show that they truly care. Those seeking assistance are treated like people instead of just another client. When anyone feels heard and respected, they're more likely to open up. This can create a strong bond and connection between professionals and the individuals they're looking to help.
Improved Outcomes
The support that trauma-informed care provides can make a huge difference. When people feel supported, it can lead to better outcomes in other areas of their lives. For example, a patient may actually stick with their treatment plan, or a child might perform better in school, all thanks to this added attention and care. Other improved outcomes besides mental health include academic performance, increased wellness, reduced substance abuse and better behavior.
Reduces Re-Traumatization
Traditional forms of therapy can unintentionally trigger negative and painful traumatic memories. Trauma-informed care works to prevent this from happening by changing how services are delivered. Medical professionals take extra steps, care and attention to ensure their patients feel safe and informed every step of the way during treatment, thereby reducing possible anxiety and fear.
Benefits for Clients and Staff
Trauma can be difficult for the individual who is struggling with it, as well as for the people in their life, especially within their core support system. Trauma-informed care works to help clients, as well as their caregivers and other professionals, so that everyone can feel supported and avoid burnout. This form of care encourages self-care and creates healthier work environments.
Next Steps
Unfortunately, trauma is more common than you may think. When hospitals, social services, schools and workplaces adopt trauma-informed care, they can work towards becoming even more supportive and compassionate of their staff, working professionals, and clients. This form of care can be a game-changer, especially in the current climate where so many individuals have been hurt or are suffering. When empowerment, understanding and safety are in focus, recovery and growth are even more possible.
Interested in exploring trauma-informed care and seeing how it can benefit you and others in your life? Reach out today to learn more about getting started.