Trauma is a common word we are hearing a lot these days; but what does it mean when it applies to how we work?
Based on Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (SAMHSA), "Trauma results from a variety of sources, including adverse childhood experiences, race-related or racial trauma, and secondary or vicarious trauma."
From all the events happening around the world, individuals face the challenge of how to positively overcome the struggles that surround them. These struggles may unconsciously result in toxic stress that may affect individuals and families, at home AND work. Yes, stress is inevitable, but it doesn't have to be toxic. There are a lot of ways to deal with toxic stress in the workplace as well as organizations to become a refuge for their employees.
According to SAMHSA, to achieve a trauma-informed organization, one may follow R’s Rubric:
Realize the widespread impact of trauma and understand potential paths for recovery;
Recognize the signs and symptoms of trauma in clients, families, staff, and others involved with the system;
Respond by fully integrating knowledge about trauma into policies, procedures, and practices; and
Actively resist re-traumatization.
The R's are where you begin to embrace the mindset shift of 'It's not about what is wrong or what a person is doing wrong; it's about considering what is happening to a person that is causing a specific behavior. Being trauma-informed is all about unlearning traditional values rooted in trauma and embracing people as who they are and what they have experienced. So we have to BREAK the Cycle of traditional work values.
BREAK the Cycle!
Become trauma-informed.
Raise awareness.
Embrace everyone’s experiences.
Acknowledge wellness as a priority and non-negotiable.
Know that work begins with you!
Stan Slap - CEO and Founder of SLAP once said, “You can’t sell it outside if you can’t sell it inside.”
A trauma-informed organization creates a nurturing environment, develops positive relationships amongst teams, and promotes healthy living as a lifestyle. It is an organization that prioritizes not just the company's growth but also its employees' individual development. It is also an organization where everyone will be accepted regarding their differences, yet open to learning and growing with the help of each other.
Join the movement now!
To learn more, book a coaching consultation or request trauma-informed training with us today!
You may reach us through info@byellc.org