Email UpdatesTrauma-informed care is critical to integrated settings, as a history of trauma can affect both physical and mental health outcomes. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) describes a trauma-informed approach (PDF—789 KB) as one that:
- Realizes the impact of trauma and works to promote recovery;
- Recognizes the signs and symptoms of trauma in clients, families, staff, and others;
- Responds by integrating knowledge about trauma into policies, procedures, and practices; and
- Resists retraumatization of those who have experienced trauma.
Resources to help practices implement trauma-informed care are becoming increasingly available. For example, the Center for Health Care Strategies (CHCS) has created the Trauma-Informed Care Implementation Resource Center, which offers practical resources to help providers incorporate trauma-informed care in their organizations.
CHCS also recently released a Q & A session that discusses how understanding trauma can strengthen healthcare organizations, as well as a webinar that highlights how some providers have incorporated trauma-informed approaches into day-to-day practice for treating substance use disorders.
Other resources include:
- Resource Guide to Trauma-Informed Human Services: A series of resources from the Administration for Children and Families on key concepts related to trauma.
- Center for Evidence-Based Practices: A list of tools, trainings, and other resources for trauma-informed care from Case Western Reserve University.
- Treatment Improvement Protocol 57—Trauma-Informed Care in Behavioral Health Services: A manual from SAMHSA that helps behavioral health professionals understand the impact of trauma and how to support recovery.