An Introduction to Trauma Informed Care: An Approach That Makes a Difference

Trauma informed care is a relatively new concept that is quickly gaining traction in the medical, mental health and social work fields. It focuses on treating people who may have experienced trauma in the past and it has the potential to completely revolutionise the way people are treated for mental health issues.

It is an approach that takes into account the effects of different types of trauma on individuals, their families and their communities. It emphasises understanding, safety, collaboration and resilience as its core values. This approach is based on the premise that an individual's past experiences, both positive and negative, can have a profound impact on their current functioning or sense of well-being.

The goal of trauma informed care is to create an environment in which individuals feel safe, respected, and heard. It is a holistic approach that takes into account the physical, emotional and psychological effects of trauma. It also seeks to provide a safe and supportive environment in which individuals can heal and build resilience.

How is Trauma Informed Care Different from Traditional Care?

Traditional care often focuses primarily on the diagnosis and treatment of symptoms. It is often highly mechanistic and focused on symptom reduction without taking into account the underlying causes of the symptoms. Trauma informed care, on the other hand, focuses on understanding the individual’s experience and the impact of trauma on their functioning. It takes into account the individual’s unique history, culture and values, and seeks to provide care that is tailored to their needs.

Trauma informed care also emphasises collaboration and partnership between providers and individuals. It seeks to create an environment in which the provider and the individual work together to create a plan that is tailored to the individual’s needs. It is an approach that focuses on building resilience and helping individuals heal from trauma in a safe space.

What are the benefits of a Trauma Informed Society

The primary benefit of a trauma informed society is that it has the potential to improve outcomes for those who usually lack access to professional resources. We could seek to create a larger environment in which individuals feel safe and respected where they can begin the process of healing and rebuilding themselves, in a healthy way. It also has the potential to reduce stigma and provide individuals with access to care that is tailored to their unique needs.

Fostering a more trauma-informed approach has the potential to reduce healthcare costs in the long run. By addressing the underlying causes of trauma, it can help to reduce the need for medications and other interventions that are often expensive and not always effective.

Start educating yourself and others on the importance of trauma informed care, the different ways it can show up in our lives and the types of trauma that exist. Share your newfound knowledge with your family, friends, and colleagues and encourage them to do the same. Individually we can make a difference, together we can make change.

Is this the first time you've thought about the role traditional care plays in mental wellness? I'd love to hear your thoughts on this topic!

Drop a comment or email me at perceptionsbypaige@gmail.com