Understanding Trauma: The Key to Compassionate Care
At Free Mind Hive (FMH), our vision is to create a trauma-informed society where mental well-being is prioritized, and everyone has the opportunity to heal and thrive. Understanding trauma and its impact is crucial for building resilient communities and fostering a supportive environment for all.
The Power of Asking "Why?": A Journey to Trauma-Informed Care
For many years, I found myself asking why. Why was I depressed? Why did I hear voices? Why did I hate myself and engage in self-harm? These questions haunted me, and while many people told me not to ask why, I couldn’t shake it. In 2017, I asked God to help me understand mental health and why I was going through these challenges. This prayer led me to the trauma school of thought, which has since become a cornerstone of my understanding and healing.
The trauma-informed approach is the lens that helped—and still helps—me let go of the shame and guilt associated with my symptoms. I came to understand that the way I "show up" in the world, what we commonly refer to as mental illness, is not because something is inherently wrong with me, but because of what happened to me.
For example, I used to feel ugly and struggle with intense self-loathing. It wasn’t until I understood the effects of sexual abuse that I realized these feelings of ugliness and shame were symptoms of the trauma I had endured. Every symptom, every feeling, every behaviour, and every thought pattern I struggled with were all effects of the various traumas I had experienced.
This understanding transformed my life and is now one of the core approaches FMH uses to build a mentally healthy society. We recognize that many of us have faced trauma, and childhood trauma, in particular, can severely compromise mental health. Research shows that half of all mental disorders begin by age 12, and three-quarters by age 24
Why You Need to Know About Trauma
Trauma has a profound effect on mental health, shaping how individuals perceive themselves and interact with the world. By understanding that mental health challenges often stem from past traumas, we can shift from judgment to empathy. This foundational knowledge helps break cycles of trauma and fosters resilience, creating a more supportive environment for healing.
Take Action: Embrace Trauma-Informed Practices
Implementing a trauma-informed approach in your daily life means educating yourself and others about trauma, creating safe and supportive spaces, and advocating for practices that address trauma. By integrating these strategies at home, school, or work, you contribute to environments where people feel understood and supported.
The Impact of Your Actions: Why It Matters
Adopting a trauma-informed approach reduces stigma, promotes healing, and strengthens communities. Your efforts make a meaningful difference by contributing to a culture where mental health is prioritized and individuals are empowered to overcome challenges and achieve their full potential.
Scripture Inspiration: The Power of Healing
"He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds." — Psalm 147:3 (NIV). This scripture underscores the healing power of compassion. Just as God heals and mends wounds, we are called to create environments where healing and understanding are central. Embracing a trauma-informed approach allows us to support and uplift one another, reflecting divine love and grace.
Imagine a World Transformed: The Vision
Imagine a world where every community—from homes and schools to workplaces and public spaces—is equipped to understand and address trauma with compassion. Picture families informed about trauma, schools supporting struggling students, and workplaces offering understanding and resources.
In this vision, compassion replaces stigma, appropriate and timely trauma-informed support is accessible and affordable and everyone is empowered to heal, learn, grow, and achieve their true potential.
