Being trauma-informed or trauma-sensitive is a crucial part of systems of care. In order to have a more caring system surrounding children’s mental health, we must understand the widespread occurrence of trauma and how to create environments that support the resilience of individuals who have experienced it.

SAMHSA identifies four key components of trauma-informed care: (1) understanding trauma and how it can affect families, groups, organizations and communities, (2) the ability to recognize the signs of trauma, (3) that there is a response by applying a trauma-informed approach and (4) efforts made to resist re-traumatization.

If we ignore the fact that a majority of people will experience at least one trauma over their lifespan, then we are setting ourselves up for failure. Trauma can have a deep, long-lasting impact on a person’s perception of the world and of themselves. By taking a trauma-informed perspective we are recognizing the impact of trauma and finding ways to help those who have experienced trauma to feel safe in our presence and in our organizations. Only from a foundation of safety and trust can we expect children, youth and their families to allow us to join their mental health journey.

With the right support and intervention, people can overcome traumatic experiences.

The National Child Traumatic Stress Network (NCTSN) infographic above shows the relationship between bullying and trauma. It is important to know:

1. Children who have experienced trauma are more likely to be bullied and are more likely to bully others,
2. Being bullied can be traumatic and lead to the development of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD),
3. When intervening it is important to address both the bullying and the trauma in order to reduce their impact.

Stopbullying.gov has more information about the impact of bullying and what can be done to help all involved.