Trauma-informed healthcare is a relatively new approach to healthcare that takes into account the impact of trauma on an individual’s physical, emotional, and mental health and how past experiences of trauma can affect one’s present-day health (check out my earlier post about what trauma is, if you haven’t already). This approach recognizes that trauma is a common experience that can have a significant impact on an individual’s well-being, and seeks to create a safe and supportive environment for patients to receive care.

A trauma informed healthcare practitioner is one who understands the impact of trauma on a person’s mental health, behavior, and ability to engage in treatment. They strive to create a culture of safety, empowerment, and healing, and take steps to avoid re-traumatizing the client in treatment such as avoiding using triggering language in their communication, and being sensitive to specific needs. They recognize the signs and symptoms of trauma in patients, families, and staff, and integrate knowledge about trauma into policies, procedures, and practices.[1] They also acknowledge the need for individualized care, as every person’s experience is different, requiring a tailored approach to optimize their recovery. Trauma-informed care also seeks to realize the widespread impact of trauma and understand paths for recovery, and actively avoid re-traumatization.[2]

Holistic health practices are an excellent complement to trauma-informed healthcare. These practices recognize that the mind, body, and spirit are interconnected, and seek to address the root causes of health problems rather than just treating symptoms. Here are a few ways that alternative holistic health practices can support your recovery:

1) Mindfulness practices: Mindfulness practices such as meditation, yoga, prayer, and tai chi can help people manage stress and anxiety, which are common symptoms of trauma. These practices also help people connect with their bodies and develop a greater sense of self-awareness, which can be helpful in identifying triggers and managing symptoms. Further, A 2013 study published in the Journal of Health Psychology found that mindfulness meditation was associated with lower cortisol levels in participants who practiced it regularly.

2) Acupuncture: Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine practice that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body. This practice can help patients manage pain, anxiety, and other symptoms related to trauma. Acupuncture is also believed to balance the body’s energy, or qi, which can help patients achieve a greater sense of overall well-being.

3) Herbal medicine: Herbal medicine involves using plants and plant extracts to support healing. Many herbs have been used for centuries to help anxiety, depression, and other symptoms of trauma. Herbal medicine can be an effective complement to traditional healthcare, and can help people manage symptoms without relying on prescription medications.

4) Nutrition: Nutrition plays a significant role in overall health and well-being. Alternative holistic health practitioners often work with patients to develop personalized nutrition plans that support physical and emotional health. Eating a healthy, balanced diet can help people manage symptoms of trauma and improve their overall quality of life. Studies have found that a diet focused on fresh and whole foods that are high in nutrients, and limited processed refined foods, sweets, and fried food, including junk food, may be associated with improved depressive symptoms.[3]

While the benefits of trauma-informed care are clear, it’s important to remember that they aren’t limited to the patient. In fact, there are many reasons why healthcare providers should be invested in improving their practice environments as well.

1) Increased empathy and understanding: Trauma-informed care is centered around understanding the impact of trauma on individuals’ physical and emotional wellbeing. Practicing trauma-informed care can help healthcare providers develop greater empathy and understanding of their patients’ experiences, which can improve their relationships with patients and provide better care.

2) Improved patient outcomes: Trauma-informed care can improve patient outcomes, including physical and emotional recovery, adherence to treatment plans, and overall patient satisfaction. By taking a trauma-informed approach, healthcare providers can help create a safe and supportive environment that promotes healing, rather than re-traumatization.

3) Reduced stress and burnout: Providing trauma-informed care can be emotionally challenging and may require healthcare providers to confront their own biases and assumptions. However, by developing a trauma-informed approach, healthcare providers can reduce their stress levels and the risk of burnout by feeling more empowered to provide effective care.

4) Professional growth and development: Practicing trauma-informed care requires ongoing training and education, which can help healthcare providers continue to develop their skills and knowledge. This can lead to professional growth, greater job satisfaction, and increased confidence in their abilities.

5) Reducing the cost of healthcare: Trauma-informed practices help reduce unnecessary costs by reducing medication errors (for example), decreasing unnecessary tests or procedures performed on patients who don’t need them (like CT scans), lowering turnover rates among staff members because they feel supported by management rather than bullied into compliance…the list goes on!

6) Improved community health: Trauma-informed care can also have a broader impact on community health. By addressing trauma and its impact on individuals, healthcare providers can help build stronger, more resilient communities over the long term.

Holistic health practices can be an excellent complement to trauma-informed healthcare, and can offer a more comprehensive and holistic approach to healing and recovery. These practices recognize the interconnectedness of the mind, body, and spirit, and seek to address the root causes of health problems by addressing the whole person, promoting self-care, providing non-pharmacological options, empowering individuals, and providing a safe space for healing and self-expression.

By incorporating alternative holistic health practices into their healthcare routines, clients and practitioners alike can achieve a greater sense of overall well-being and improve their ability to manage symptoms of trauma.

Sources:
1) https://www.asha.org/practice/trauma-informed-care/
2) https://www.traumainformedcare.chcs.org/what-is-trauma-informed-care/
3) https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/318428