Implementing trauma-informed care in mental health services
Resource
Exclusive quality-assured RCN learning resource
Available to RCNi Plus subscribers
Applicable for any nurse with an RCNi subscription
It has been recognised that trauma underpins several mental health conditions, and that retraumatisation, in which a person re-experiences a traumatic event, is common in mental health services.
This article explores the effects of childhood trauma on adult mental distress, and describes the symptoms and behaviours associated with trauma. Mental health practitioners, services and organisations need to ensure trauma-informed care is standard practice to enable service users to move beyond the traumatic events they have experienced. Trauma-informed care should be viewed as a concept rather than an intervention to promote a cultural shift from what is ‘wrong’ with a person to what has happened to them.
Who is this resource for?
Explains what the component is for
This resource is aimed at nurses and nursing support workers across all settings and levels of practice, including students of health, social work and care professions.
Why you should read this article
to enhance your awareness of the link between trauma and mental health conditions
to understand how you could implement the principles of trauma-informed care in your practice
to count towards revalidation as part of your 35 hours of CPD, or you may wish to write a reflective account (UK readers)
to contribute towards your professional development and local registration renewal requirements (non-UK readers).
