Alyssa Martin
While reading SAMHSA’s Concept of Trauma and Guidance for
a Trauma-Informed Approach, I started to become interested in how interconnectedness
among multiple sectors can contribute to the mitigation of the effects of
traumatic experiences. I did some more research and got involved with how
public policy can support the networks between services for a child or adult. I
was on another section of the Trauma-Informed Care Implementation Research
Center website when I stumbled upon the article regarding steps that can be
taken at an organizational level to support interrelations. It described 4 ways
that an organization can adopt a Trauma-Informed Approach.
Step one is to build awareness and generate buy-in. This
means creating an inclusive environment where staff members and patients are
aware of the impact trauma can have on physical and mental health. It requires
that the organization allows all parties to be a part of the planning process
for efforts to create effective approaches. Step 2 is creating a culture of
staff wellness. Leadership styles should include the promotion of work-life
balance and incorporate activities that are for the well-being of individuals. Step
3 recommends hiring a trauma-informed workforce. However, I do not necessarily agree
with this. I think that understanding and implementation of trauma-informed
care can be taught if the staff member is willing to learn and take on the responsibility
of creating an environment with this support. The individual must be willing to
reflect on their own experiences while also keeping in mind their patient’s trauma.
Step 3 can play into Step 4 by the workers creating a safe physical, social,
and emotional environment.
Many organizations can get so caught
up in the bread and butter of running the business that these foundations can
be left behind. However, if they are considered throughout the company, it can
create an overall positive aspect for all parties involved.
Center for Health Care
Strategies. (2019, November 1). Adopting a Trauma-Informed Approach to
Improve Patient Care: Foundational Organizational-Level Steps. The Playbook: Better Care for People with
Complex Needs. https://www.bettercareplaybook.org/plays/adopting-trauma-informed-approach-improve-patient-care-foundational-organizational-level