Vol. 4(15)
While unpacking what I learned with my husband, Gary, after completing an intense month-long Trauma Informed Practice certification (4–6 hours a day!), I found myself reflecting on just how universal these principles are.
My biggest takeaway?
Whether in a hospital room or a classroom, behavior is communication.
In healthcare, when a patient yells or becomes distressed during an assessment, it might seem overly dramatic. Yet through a Trauma-Informed lens, that reaction could signal something much deeper.
The same understanding applies to our students. When a learner shuts down, reacts
strongly, or withdraws, our response can either reinforce fear or create safety. Instead of saying,
“I’m not doing anything to you,” we can reframe it with, “You’re safe right now. I’m here with you. Let’s take this one step at a time.”
This approach reminds us that compassion, trust, and awareness are critical to helping others feel safe, whether they’re patients or students.
This reflection will be a valuable addition to my lesson plans for my Health Occupations students, as we explore how trauma-informed care shapes more empathetic and effective future healthcare professionals.
#TraumaInformedCare #HealthOccupationsEducation #Healthcare #SEL #EmpathyInAction #Teaching #ProfessionalGrowth