Trauma
Choose from one of the three trauma topics listed below and prepare a presentation related to trauma and clinical practice. The presentation should be 12 slides in length.
1. What is the impact of different restraints in relation to trauma? (Physical or pharmacological)
2. What is the relationship between trauma and homelessness (and other social determinants of health)?
3. What is the correlation between trauma and substance abuse?
In your presentation, cover the following information:
1. Title Slide
2. What is the definition of trauma?
a. Who is vulnerable to trauma?
3. How can trauma be experienced on the intergenerational level and over the individual and family lifespan?
4. Pathophysiology of Trauma
5. How do social determinants of health correlate to the effects of trauma?
6. S/Sx of Trauma
7. What is the difference between trauma therapy and trauma-informed care?
8. What is a trigger and how would you recognize that someone is experiencing trauma-related distress?
9. How might a person with a history of trauma have behavior that could be interpreted as “noncompliance” or non-adherence?
10. Special trauma topic: one from the 3 choices listed above.
11. Conclusion
12. References at least 6 APA references published within the last five years
Title Slide
What is Trauma?
Definition: Trauma is an emotional and physical response to a distressing event, which exceeds an individual’s ability to cope with it.
Vulnerability to Trauma: Anyone can experience trauma, but individuals who have experienced multiple traumatic events, have mental health conditions, and lack support systems are more vulnerable.
Intergenerational Trauma
Trauma can be experienced across generations due to unresolved trauma in a family.
Traumatic experiences can cause genetic changes, which can be passed down to the next generation.
Pathophysiology of Trauma
Trauma activates the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and the sympathetic nervous system (SNS), which triggers the fight-or-flight response.
Prolonged exposure to trauma can lead to changes in the brain’s structure and function, particularly in the amygdala and prefrontal cortex.
Social Determinants of Health and Trauma
Trauma is more common among individuals experiencing poverty, discrimination, homelessness, and lack of access to healthcare.
These factors increase the likelihood of exposure to traumatic events and reduce the availability of resources for coping with trauma.
S/Sx of Trauma
Symptoms of trauma may include anxiety, depression, dissociation, hypervigilance, nightmares, and flashbacks.
Symptoms may vary depending on the type and severity of the trauma and can interfere with daily life.
Trauma Therapy vs. Trauma-Informed Care
Trauma therapy is a specialized approach that focuses on addressing the emotional and physical effects of trauma.
Trauma-informed care is a broader framework that aims to create a safe environment and promote healing for individuals who have experienced trauma.
Recognizing Triggers and Trauma-Related Distress
Triggers are events or situations that remind individuals of their traumatic experience.
Trauma-related distress may manifest as emotional outbursts, avoidance behavior, or physical symptoms such as sweating and shaking.
Noncompliance and Trauma History
Individuals with a history of trauma may have difficulty adhering to treatment plans due to fear, mistrust, or a lack of control over their lives.
Providers can improve adherence by using trauma-informed care and empowering patients to take an active role in their treatment.
Special Topic: Trauma and Substance Abuse
Trauma is a common underlying factor in substance abuse and addiction.
Substance abuse can be a maladaptive coping mechanism for dealing with trauma-related symptoms.
Conclusion
Trauma is a complex and pervasive issue that affects individuals across the lifespan and generations.
Understanding the effects of trauma and implementing trauma-informed care can improve outcomes for individuals who have experienced trauma.
References
American Psychological Association. (2017). What is Trauma? Retrieved from https://www.apa.org/topics/trauma/
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2014). TIP 57: Trauma-Informed Care in Behavioral Health Services. Retrieved from https://store.samhsa.gov/product/TIP-57-Trauma-Informed-Care-in-Behavioral-Health-Services/SMA14-4816
Vincent, J., & Nasser, K. (2020). The relationship between trauma and substance use disorders: A narrative review. Substance Abuse: Research and Treatment, 14, 1178221820962883.
Van der Kolk, B. A. (2014). The body keeps the score: Brain, mind, and body in the healing of trauma. Penguin Books.
Yehuda, R., Daskalakis, N. P., Bierer, L. M., Bader, H. N., Klengel, T., Holsbo
