{"id":14893,"date":"2019-06-04T09:58:02","date_gmt":"2019-06-04T14:58:02","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/swope-cloud.flywheelsites.com\/?p=5369"},"modified":"2024-02-19T12:20:42","modified_gmt":"2024-02-19T18:20:42","slug":"trauma-informed-care-techniques-because-we-care","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/swopehealth.org\/trauma-informed-care-techniques-because-we-care\/","title":{"rendered":"Trauma-Informed Care Techniques… Because we care."},"content":{"rendered":"
\"Trauma-Informed
From left, Alicia Johnson, Residential Supervisor; Candice Owen, Residential Qualified Mental Health Professional; Chris Williams, Training and Development Specialist; and Carla Lee, Patient Community and Education Specialist, welcome Swope Health associates to the “Peaceful Pause.”<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

At Swope Health, associates use trauma-informed care techniques to offer support and coping skills to help people who feel depressed, frightened, angry, helpless, overwhelmed or stressed.<\/p>\n

\u201cTrauma-informed care is an awareness that everyone experiences trauma in their lives, in some way or another,\u201d said Laurie Cox, Director of Integrated Recovery Services. \u201cWe understand that trauma can take a variety of forms and can cause a variety of responses. We recognize how common trauma is and we know that anyone who\u2019s experienced trauma needs support and understanding.\u201d<\/p>\n

We See Trauma<\/h4>\n

All too frequently, associates at Swope Health see clients facing trauma, involving physical abuse, emotional abuse, sexual abuse or neglect. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention<\/a> (CDC) estimate about one in seven children will experience abuse each year, and the number increases for children in lower socioeconomic status.<\/p>\n

Additionally, the CDC notes that one in four women experiences domestic violence, and one in five women experiences rape.<\/p>\n

Trauma Reactions<\/h4>\n
\"Trauma-Informed
D\u2019Ambra Baker, Behavioral Health Consultant-Outreach, was on hand to explain how seeing through different colored lenses can stimulate different types of energy.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Reactions to trauma can vary widely. Some people may withdraw or feel depressed while others may respond with anger or violence. Recognizing the range of reactions is part of understanding trauma and providing care, Laurie said.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe are here to help you manage your mental health and learn good strong coping skills,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n

Trauma Transformers<\/h4>\n

With that awareness, Swope Health has formed a team called the \u201cTrauma Transformers\u201d to use the techniques of trauma-informed care with the community and associates.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe all need self-care,\u201d said Carla Lee, Patient Community and Education Specialist and one of the Trauma Transformers leaders. \u201cIf we<\/em> are not healthy mentally, physically, emotionally or spiritually, we will not be able to help others be successful.\u201d<\/p>\n

Peaceful Pause<\/h4>\n
\"D\u2019Ambra
Play therapy included hands-on activities, like solving the Rubik\u2019s cube puzzle.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

To demonstrate self-care at Swope Health, the Trauma Transformers host periodic events and activities for associates. In May, the team sponsored a \u201cPeaceful Pause\u201d \u2013 relaxation stations set up to allow associates to take a break from their work to achieve a moment of peace and mindfulness. The event used color therapy, aromatherapy, play therapy and coloring stations for associates to explore. Associates also were treated to healthy snacks\u2013 reminders of the importance of physical health, too.<\/p>\n

More than 70 associates took advantage of the peaceful pause, which featured soothing music and soft lighting during the two-hour event. \u00a0Some wore colored sunglasses to experience differing energy levels while reading inspirational notes; others experimented with the sensations caused by a variety of aromatic oils.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe want you to know that we care about you, and we want you to take care of yourself, too,\u201d Carla said.<\/p>\n

Every day, someone feels depressed, frightened, angry or helpless. Every day, Swope Health stands ready to offer assessments, treatment, support and coping skills. You can visit or call the Behavioral Health team at (816) 922-1070 for an appointment. <\/em><\/p>\n

Resources:<\/h4>\n