Trauma

Trauma

Trauma is a term used to describe distressing event(s) that may have long lasting, harmful effect on a person’s physical and emotional health and wellbeing. It can stem from physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, disasters, war, violence, and childhood neglect.

In the U.S., 61% of men and 51% of women report exposure to at least one lifetime traumatic event, and in public behavioral health settings, 90% of clients have experienced trauma. Data suggests that many people with mental illnesses and addictions will have poor physical health outcomes if trauma goes unaddressed, and ignoring trauma can hinder recovery. All care — in all health settings — must address trauma in a safe and sensitive way in order to ensure the best possible health outcomes.

RESOURCES

The Anna Institute is a resource, research, and informational website developed by Ann Jennings, PhD, and named for her daughter Anna who was a victim of child sexual abuse and spent her last years of life in a psychiatric institution.

Adverse Childhood Experiences Survey provides data on the relationships between trauma and later health and social outcomes.

The National Child Traumatic Stress Network works to improve access to care, treatment, and services for traumatized children and adolescents exposed to traumatic events.

The National Council for Community Behavioral Healthcare lists numerous articles and resources relative to organizations changing their cultures into ones that embrace trauma-informed care, including a National Council magazine focused exclusively on trauma.

PTSD Coach is a mobile app created by Department of Veterans Affairs’ National Center for PTSD and the Department of Defense’s National Center for Telehealth and Technology to help individuals learn about and manage trauma symptoms.

SAMHSA Disaster Technical Assistance Center supports SAMHSA's efforts to prepare states and local entities to deliver effective behavioral health responses to disasters.

SAMHSA National GAINS Center helps expand access to community-based services for adults diagnosed with co-occurring mental and substance use disorders at all points of contact with the justice system, as well as promotes communities’ integrated systems of behavioral healthcare for people in contact with the justice system.

SAMHSA Promoting Alternatives to Seclusion and Restraint through Trauma-Informed Practices & National Center for Trauma Informed Care promotes trauma-informed practices in services delivery for people who have experienced violence and trauma and seek support for recovery and healing.