This past summer, we had opportunities to talk to groups about what it means to be trauma-informed as a teacher, coach, and leader. No Limits Mindset (NLM) is passionate about this topic for several reasons. We believe that circumstances can often be overcome through resilience, dedication, having a growth mindset, and learning from failure. While our past does not define us, we can certainly learn from our mistakes. Looking back at our careers, we each have some “ah-ha” moments when we handle situations differently than in the past. Past decisions were made without the knowledge and understanding of today, and we would most certainly handle them differently knowing what we know now. We like to believe, "when you know better, you do better."
No matter your many roles in life, your role involves guidance and support to others. But to do this effectively, it is essential to be trauma-informed. Trauma-informed means understanding how past experiences, especially traumatic ones, can shape a person's behavior, emotions, and interactions with others.
What Are ACEs?
Adverse Childhood Experiences, or ACEs, refer to potentially traumatic events that occur during childhood, such as abuse, neglect, or household dysfunction. These experiences can have a significant impact on a person's physical and mental health well into adulthood (CDC, 2019). The more ACEs a person has, the higher their ACE score, which can be a predictor of future challenges, including difficulties in relationships, learning, and managing emotions (Felitti et al., 1998).
ACEs Score: A Tool, Not a Label
The ACE score is a number between 0 and 10 that reflects how many types of adverse experiences a person has had before the age of 18. For example, if someone experienced physical abuse, emotional neglect, and parental separation, their ACE score would be 3. While the ACE score can help understand someone's background, it is crucial to remember that it doesn’t define them. ACE scores are a tool for insight, not a label (SAMSHA 2014).
Determine your ACE score HERE.
Trauma Responses: Fight, Flight, Freeze, FLOCK, and Fawn
People who have experienced trauma may respond to stress in specific ways, often without even realizing it. These responses are natural survival mechanisms:
Fight: The person may become aggressive or confrontational.
Flight: The person might try to escape or avoid the situation.
Freeze: The person may shut down or become unresponsive.
Flock: The person might adapt behavior to maintain safety and acceptance within the group.
Fawn: The person might try to please others to avoid conflict (NCTSN, 2021).
Recognizing these responses can help you better understand and support those you interact with. For instance, a student who constantly disrupts class might be in a fight response, while an employee who avoids meetings could be experiencing flight.
Why Being Trauma-Informed Matters
Being trauma-informed means being aware that many people have experienced events that can influence their behavior. Instead of reacting with frustration or judgment, a trauma-informed approach encourages curiosity and compassion. It is about asking, "What happened to this person that might explain their behavior?" instead of "What’s wrong with them?" (Van der Kolk, 2015)
This mindset shift can lead to better outcomes for everyone. When people feel understood and supported, they are more likely to succeed and engage positively in their work, studies, or team activities.
Practical Steps to Be Trauma-Informed
Educate Yourself: Learn about trauma, ACEs, and their effects. Understanding the basics can change how you view and interact with others (CDC, 2019).
Practice Empathy: Try to see situations from the perspective of the person experiencing them. Remember, their reaction might be rooted in past experiences you know nothing about (Van der Kolk, 2015).
Create a Safe Environment: Whether in a classroom, on a sports field, or in the workplace, make sure people feel safe and respected. This can be as simple as maintaining a calm tone, being consistent in your actions, and offering support when needed (NCTSN, 2021).
Avoid Triggers: Be mindful of actions or situations that might remind someone of their trauma. This could include avoiding harsh criticism or not forcing someone into uncomfortable situations without proper support (SAMSHA, 2014).
Encourage Open Communication: Let people know they can talk to you if they are struggling.
Sometimes, just knowing that someone is willing to listen can make a big difference.
Being trauma-informed is not just about understanding trauma; it is about changing how we interact with others. By recognizing that past experiences shape present behavior, we can create environments where everyone feels safe, supported, and able to thrive. Adopting a trauma-informed approach can make all the difference in the lives of those you interact with.
If you are looking for a practical resource on trauma and being trauma-informed, we have a recommendation for you. Dr. Bruce Perry and Oprah Winfrey have written a book called, What Happened to You, Conversations on trauma, resilience, and healing. Make it a point to check this out if you are looking to learn more and expand your skills in working with others.
References
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). "Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)." CDC,
National Child Traumatic Stress Network (NCTSN). "Trauma-Informed Care." NCTSN, 2021.
Felitti, V. J., Anda, R. F., Nordenberg, D., Williamson, D. F., Spitz, A. M., Edwards, V., Koss, M. P., &
Marks, J. S. "Relationship of Childhood Abuse and Household Dysfunction to Many of the Leading
Causes of Death in Adults: The Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) Study." American Journal of
Preventive Medicine, 1998. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0749-3797(98)00017-8
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). "Trauma-Informed Care in Behavioral Health Services." SAMHSA, 2014. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK207201/
Van der Kolk, B. A. The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of
Trauma. Penguin Books, 2015. https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/225208/the-
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