Trauma

Question 1

“Trauma is the result of external events that overwhelm…..”.

Answer 1

Trauma is the result of external events that overwhelm

• a persons coping ability
• resulting in specific symptoms of psychological or emotional distress,
• and/or affecting a person’s life over a period of time.

Question 2

What social determinants of health has trauma been linked to?

Answer 2

1. Race
2. Gender
3. Social Exclusion
4. Disability
5. Poverty

Question 3

Does trauma informed practice require the disclosure of trauma?

Answer 3

No

Question 4

Can talking about trauma retraumatize the person?

Answer 4

Yes

Question 5

Define vicarious traumatization

Answer 5

• Transformation or change in a helper’s inner experience
• as a result of responsibility for, and empathetic engagement with traumatized clients.

Question 6

Be able to list signs and symptom of vicarious trauma, including possible indicators.

Answer 6

• Disruptive frame of reference: our lives don’t make sense. Life feels heavy and negative
• Diminished self-capacities: We can’t do as much as we used to be able to do.
• Impaired ego functioning: we have difficult time coping.
• Changes in psychological needs and how we see the world.
• No time or energy for oneself
• Disconnection from loved ones
• Social withdrawal
• Increased sensitivity to violence
• Cynicism and pessimism
• Generalized despair and hopelessness
• Nightmares and/or intrusive imagery

Question 7

How could you deal with vicarious trauma if you were experiencing it?

Answer 7

• Self-care
• Nuturing activities
• Escape using healthy distractions
• Take care of our mental health needs
• Be aware of the impact clients have on us.
• Get accurate information on client’s issues and difficulties
• Report it
• Grounding exercises