Trauma informed practice

Many people in Northern Ireland have experienced trauma, including those who experienced the Northern Ireland Conflict and those who experienced childhood trauma. 

Northern Ireland Conflict

• A 1998 study found that 61% of the population experienced some form of trauma during the Troubles. 

• A report on the mental health impact of the civil conflict in Northern Ireland found that 39% of the study population experienced a conflict-related traumatic event. 

Childhood trauma

• A study published in the Journal of Child and Adolescent Trauma found that almost four in 10 young people in Northern Ireland have experienced some form of childhood trauma. 

• The Youth Wellbeing Survey found that 47.5% of young people aged 11-19 years have experienced at least one adverse childhood experience (ACE). 

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

• A 2011 report found that Northern Ireland has the highest rate of PTSD in the world. The report found that 8.8% of the population met the criteria for PTSD. 

Other factors that contribute to mental health issues in Northern Ireland include: poverty, education, parental mental health problems, domestic violence, and parental alcohol or substance use problems.

The 4 R's of trauma-informed care

However, trauma-informed care aims to help women heal and avoid re-traumatization. It's based on the idea that trauma can be caused by adverse events that overwhelm a person's ability to cope.

The 4 R's of trauma-informed care are a framework that helps providers understand and respond to trauma. This model was developed by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration in the USA.

• Realize: Understand how trauma affects people and communities

• Recognize: Identify the signs of trauma in patients

• Respond: Use knowledge of trauma to create systems that help people heal

• Resist: Actively work to prevent re-traumatization by avoiding practices that might trigger painful memories

The six principles of trauma-informed care

 Safety

Being physically or psychologically safe whether in the community or at work is a key priority for women but more importantly understanding how they perceive safety is critical.

Trustworthiness and transparency

It is important to be open and transparent with women if they use your services and ensure they are aware of the policies and measures to ensure that inclusive safe space. 

Peer support

Women’s stories and lived experiences are valued and more importantly recognized, establishing trust growth and healing. Self-help and peer support can and does aid that personal growth.

Collaboration

Everyone has a role to play in trauma informed practice, shared decision making between staff and women using the service should be encouraged.

Empowerment Voice and Choice

Women’s strengths and experiences are recognized and built upon and women are encouraged to use their own voice and resilience as part of the trauma informed approach to make choices and decisions relevant to their lives.

Cultural Historical and Gender issues

Be aware of cultural bias and offer access to gender responsive services, by adopting policies and procedures that are responsive to racial, ethnic and cultural needs of individuals and recognize and address historical trauma.

These principles can be used in many settings, including healthcare, education, and the workplace. They can help people regain a sense of control and build resilience.