Why Trauma-Informed Care is Important

Trauma-informed care is an approach that allows treating a patient who experienced trauma by understanding their life experiences. In this blog, you’ll find out why it’s so effective.

What Does Trauma-Informed Care Mean?

Trauma-informed care is a set of practices that allow professionals to help clients address their trauma by creating a safe environment. For example, a healthcare provider might ask their patient for feedback to allow them to have more control and be understanding even if a person refuses to go through with some parts of the treatment plan. The aim of this approach is also to make sure that every professional understands the impact of trauma because only then they’re able to provide sufficient care.

Since many traumatised individuals are afraid of seeking help and some services might even lead to traumatisation, implementing this approach is extremely important. Its importance is reflected by the 5 principles:

1. Trauma awareness

Healthcare providers have to understand that trauma is common and might negatively impact one’s physical, emotional and mental health. This awareness will be demonstrated by empathetic attitude, providing services such as screening for the signs of trauma and letting the patient know that their experience resulted in harmful coping skills and a range of symptoms.

2. Choice and empowerment

Giving traumatised individuals a say in how they are treated allows to facilitate healing and prevents re-traumatisation. All decisions are made with transparency. The key is developing a collaborative relationship that will help the patient feel less passive, which is how many feel after experiencing trauma.

3. Safety

The physical and emotional safety of both patients and the staff is the priority. For example, appointments should be scheduled regularly to avoid triggering a patient’s anxiety.

4. Strengths-Based

Treatment often focuses on helping patients build skills such as resilience to reduce the impact of trauma. A healthcare professional should see a patient as a survivor, not a victim.

5. Personalised care

Stereotypes based on factors such as sexual orientation or gender are recognised. For example, people might be more likely to experience abuse due to their race, which can generate a feeling of shame that has to be addressed as a part of a treatment plan.

What are The Benefits of Trauma-Informed Care?

Trauma-informed care is a more compassionate and personalised approach that allows a patient to develop a trusting relationship with a mental health professional, which creates a more welcoming environment.

When a patient feels safe, they’re more likely to engage with the treatment. Trauma-informed care is also a collaborative approach that empowers the patient and facilitates healing by equipping them with the necessary skills to gain more independence.

If you’ve experienced something upsetting and would like to discuss your treatment options, contact My Family Psychologist to see how we can help