Does My Business Need to be Trauma Informed? Ask a Trauma Therapist for Real Advice

 

Does Your Business Need to Be Trauma-Informed? Trauma Therapist Advice

In today's fast-paced and often stressful world, it's increasingly important for businesses to create a supportive and inclusive environment for their employees. One way to do this is by becoming trauma-informed. But what does it mean to be trauma-informed, and why is it important for businesses? As a trauma therapist with two decades working with survivors, the need to be trauma informed is more than a slogan. It's solely the only way to support your employees without risking their mental health daily.

What is Trauma-Informed Care?

Trauma-informed care is a holistic approach that recognizes the prevalence of trauma in individuals and communities. It involves understanding the impact of trauma on people's lives and implementing practices that promote healing and resilience. A trauma-informed business recognizes that employees may have experienced trauma and provides a supportive environment that helps them to thrive.

Why is Trauma-Informed Care Important for Businesses?

There are several reasons why trauma-informed care is important for businesses:

• Improved employee well-being: When employees feel safe, supported, and understood, they are more likely to be productive and engaged in their work. Trauma-informed practices can help to create a positive and supportive work environment.
• Increased employee retention: Employees who feel valued and supported are less likely to leave their jobs. A trauma-informed business can help to improve employee retention and reduce turnover costs.
• Enhanced productivity: When employees are able to focus on their work without being distracted by the effects of trauma, they are more likely to be productive. Trauma-informed practices can help to improve employee productivity and efficiency.
• Improved customer satisfaction: Employees who are happy and healthy are more likely to provide excellent customer service. A trauma-informed business can help to improve customer satisfaction and loyalty.

How to Become a Trauma-Informed Business

Becoming a trauma-informed business requires a commitment to creating a safe and supportive environment for employees. Here are some steps that businesses can take to become trauma-informed:

1. Educate employees about trauma: Provide employees with training on trauma, its effects, and how to support colleagues who may have experienced trauma.
2. Create a safe and supportive work environment: Implement policies and procedures that promote a safe and supportive work environment, such as a respectful workplace policy and a harassment prevention policy.
3. Offer support services: Provide employees with access to support services, such as counseling or employee assistance programs (EAPs), to help them cope with the effects of trauma.
4. Promote self-care: Encourage employees to take care of their physical and mental health by offering wellness programs, such as yoga or meditation classes.
5. Be mindful of language: Use inclusive language that avoids stigmatizing or blaming individuals who have experienced trauma.

By becoming a trauma-informed business, you can create a more supportive and inclusive environment for your employees, which can lead to improved employee well-being, increased productivity, and enhanced customer satisfaction.

Sara Fischer Sanford, LCSW

www.BridgetoWellnessCounselingSF.com

Disclaimer: All information provided in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute mental health treatment or advice of any kind. If you are experiencing an emergency, please dial 911 or go to your nearest emergency room. You can also reach the National Suicide Hotline by dialing 988.