Implementing a
Trauma-Informed Approach

Our proposal is to promote and enhance a trauma-informed approach within any organization and company, and not only in those that provide mental health services or deal with traumatized populations.

 

Approximately two-thirds of adults in Canada (around 63% to 64%) have experienced at least one potentially traumatic event in their lifetime, according to recent data from Statistics Canada. The most common types of events reported include transportation accidents, physical assaults, and life-threatening illnesses or injuries. 

 

And counselling wait times of six months to one year are unfortunately standard across Canada.

​

Therefore, the workplace becomes the environment in which we can and should apply the main principles of a trauma-informed approach, making it safer and more welcoming for everyone.

​

Engagement, commitment, and productivity increase, especially when supported by the implementation of the cultural complexity and EDI lens.

​

The trauma-informed approach's main principles are:

1. Safety

2. Trustworthiness and Transparency

3. Peer support

4. Collaboration and mutuality

5. Empowerment, voice and choice

6. Cultural, Historical, and Gender Issues​

 

What can we do differently in order to implement a trauma-informed approach? 

The answers to this question can guide the improvement of practices, policies, procedures, and the organization's culture.