Trauma-Informed Approaches Trauma-Informed Approaches to Support Learners in Higher Education Traumatic experiences can impact: Education & Learning Professional Development Mental Health & Well-being Education & Learning How trauma impacts individuals depends on factors such as: Personal characteristics Nature & specifics of the event Developmental stage Sociocultural influences Nature & specifics of the event Perceived meaning of the eventand more Examples of Trauma: Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) Homophobia, Transphobia, Xenophobia Ageism, Sexism, Racism Micro-aggressions & Hate Crimes Bullying, Cyberbullying Sexual Violence & Sexual Harassment Domestic Violence & Human Trafficking Historical & Structural Trauma Political & Economic Trauma War, Combat & Domestic Terrorism Medical Trauma Events related to the social and behavioral determinants of health Being 'trauma-informed' involves addressing the cultural needs of individuals, recognizing their intersectional identities, and considering the historical traumas experienced by different cultural groups. Four Key Steps to a Trauma-Informed Approach 1 Realizing the widespread impact of trauma and its role in recovery 2 Recognizing the signs and symptoms of trauma for all employees and students within the university 3 Responding to trauma by changing policies and procedures to support those who are experiencing trauma 4 Resisting traumatization by actively resisting practices that will re-traumatize By fostering a universally safe environment both inside and outside individual classrooms, trauma-informed approaches can help students thrive. Six Key Principles for Trauma-Informed Practice: 1 Safety 2 Collaboration & Empathy 3 Trustworthiness & Transparency 4 Empowerment & Choice 5 Peer Support 6 Identity Trauma-informed approaches will allow us to create a more inclusive, supportive, and resilient academic environment. References & Additional Information: Trauma- Informed Paper Trauma-Informed Approaches to Support Learners in Higher Education Infographic Research by Megha Banka & Design by Shania ShethOctober 2024