Why Being Trauma-Informed Is Essential for Everyone
The landmark 1998 Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) Study revealed that over half of Americans have encountered at least one traumatic event during their childhood. These events range from physical and emotional abuse to witnessing violence or enduring family instability, and they can lead to significant long-term health issues.
Understanding the Spectrum of Trauma
Trauma is not a one-size-fits-all experience. Mental health professionals categorize trauma into "Big T" traumas — severe events like wars, natural disasters, or violent assaults, which could lead to Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) — and "Little t" traumas, such as bullying or loss of significant relationships. Both types of traumas, despite their differences in scale, can have profound emotional effects and potentially lead to similar psychological stress over time.
The Universal Impact of Trauma
Trauma touches every human life, transcending race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, gender, sexual orientation, and education level. Loss, whether it be of a loved one, a job, or even a pet, is a universal experience that carries a weight of trauma with it.
The Benefits of a Trauma-Informed Approach
Adopting a trauma-informed perspective means shifting the question from “What’s wrong with you?” to “What happened to you?” This approach fosters compassion, patience, and understanding, crucial traits in a society grappling with widespread mental health crises.
Trauma-informed care involves recognizing the prevalence of trauma, acknowledging its impact, responding with empathy, and striving to avoid causing further trauma. By understanding the signs and symptoms of trauma, we can better interact with those around us, leading to healthier, more supportive relationships and communities.
Invitation to Engage and Learn More
In upcoming posts, I’ll delve deeper into the nuances of trauma-informed care, including the critical intersection of trauma and racial discussions. Your insights and questions are valuable as we explore these topics together. Contact me anytime at shaina@therapeuticbridges.com to discuss further.