How to Support Trauma Survivors

by Izmir Laforest, The Youth Outlook staff writer

This pandemic has shined a light on how many people need our attention and aid. With all the chaos in the world, we want to help whoever we can, but do it in a way that that is respectful to them. This article will focus on how you can be of more help than harm to trauma survivors that come to you for support.

1. Listen

It takes a lot of courage for people who have experienced trauma to open up about their problems, so if they decide to share their experience with you, it is extremely important to listen to what they have to say. While they’re talking, pay attention to their body language, it may indicate how they are feeling. Remember to not interrupt them and wait until they have finished speaking before asking questions.

2. Comfort

When they finish speaking, make sure they know that they’re appreciated. Thank them for sharing their experience and let them know that it’s a safe space. You can also ask them how they’re feeling and what they need at the moment that’ll help them.

3. Be Understanding

From microaggressions to physical abuse, trauma comes in all sorts of forms. Something that may not seem like a big deal to you could be a very painful experience for someone else. Be understanding and don’t judge their trauma.

What To Avoid:

* Offering solutions

Brian Peck, a licensed clinical social worker who specializes in religious-based trauma says, “Trauma survivors don’t want advice; they want to be seen, heard, believed, and validated.” There isn’t a quick solution to recovering from trauma, it’s a process with ups and downs, what’s important is that you’re there for them along the way.

* Invalidating their experience

We invalidate their trauma when we ask questions such as “why didn’t you just try and escape?” and “why didn’t you fight back?” These types of questions are extremely damaging to them because it implies that they should’ve reacted a certain way to prevent the traumatizing experience. What happened was by no means their fault and blaming them for something they couldn’t have predicted will harm them, not make them feel better, or

help the situation.

All in all, by keeping these things in mind, we can be a better help to trauma survivors who are seeking support.

Resources

Here is a short list of free 24/7 hotlines that help trauma

survivors, and a few resources that provide more information on trauma and

PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder).

SAMSHA’s Disaster Distress Hotline: 1-800-985-5990

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)

National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)

Safe Harbor House PTSD Screening test

The Association of Traumatic Stress Specialists Their mission is to

“organize, educate and professionally certify its worldwide membership in

order to assist those affected by trauma.”