What Does 'Trauma-Informed' Really Mean? Breaking Down the Basics
What Does 'Trauma-Informed' Really Mean? Breaking Down the Basics In my journey as a nurse, a veteran, and the spouse of a veteran, I’ve come to understand the weight that trauma can carry—not just in the lives of individuals but in the fabric of communities. Trauma is more than an isolated event; it’s an imprint that affects the way we interact with the world, with others, and even with ourselves. For years, I worked in environments where people’s behaviours often seemed puzzling or challenging. It wasn’t until I embraced a trauma-informed perspective that I began to see these behaviours not as problems but as adaptations. So, what does it mean to be "trauma-informed"? Let’s break it down. The Core Principles of Trauma-Informed Care Being trauma-informed means recognising the widespread impact of trauma and understanding that it affects everyone differently. It’s not a checklist or a technique; it’s a mindset that informs how we interact, respond, and support other...
