What does it mean to be “trauma-informed”?

While more research is needed to understand how to properly address trauma in all aspects of our society, many dedicated researchers, practitioners, and designers are working to find solutions. And a crucial first step is getting everyone on the same page about the importance of a trauma-informed approach.

• (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) SAMHSA’s Trauma-informed Care in behavioral health services states,

• Being Trauma-informed means to:

• Recognize the prevalence of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) / trauma among all people

• Recognize that many behaviors and symptoms are the result of traumatic experiences

• Recognize that being treated with respect and kindness – and being empowered with choices – are key in helping people recover from traumatic experiences

• Trauma-informed care means shifting from the medical question of:

• “What’s wrong with you?” to the trauma-informed question “What’s happened to you?”