Open Virtual – Understanding Trauma Course

Helping you to understand traumatic stress

Exposure to traumatic events is recognised as a factor influencing the development of a variety of mental health conditions, and is not confined to Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
When working with people who have been exposed to trauma, it is necessary to understand: the responses to trauma, how to keep people safe and how to protect yourself from the associated risks from vicarious trauma. An understanding of trauma informed practice helps provide a foundation for support and conversation.  Relationships are built on safety, trust, choice, affirmation, collaboration, and empowerment.

Key Learning Points

• Introduction to trauma and the characteristics of traumatic events.
• Understanding the impact of trauma.
• Trauma psychology – How we think and behave after trauma.
• Common risk factors for the development of traumatic stress.
• Identifying signs symptoms and behaviours.
• Trauma informed practice.
• Discussing trauma – active listening skills.
• Positive and negative coping.
• Signposting and support.
• Self-protection and caring for the carer.

Course Aim

This training is designed to improve confidence and knowledge of trauma response. It is suitable for anyone working with people who have been exposed to trauma. The course involves practical exercises and group discussion.

The training is not designed to be therapeutic and is not recommended for people with ongoing issues related to traumatic experiences.

Take a look at our course page for more details: Understanding Trauma – Strongmind

If you are concerned that you or a colleague are developing a mental health problem and need to seek help urgently go directly to your GP. If you or a colleague are thinking about ending your life, please call 999 (UK) or go to A&E and ask for the contact of the nearest crisis resolution team. These are teams of mental health care professionals who work with people in severe distress.

Below are details on services and organisations that offer help and support directly to people with mental health problems. 

Talk to Samaritans Samaritans | Every life lost to suicide is a tragedy | Here to listen
Mind Charity Use our tools and get help for your mental health | Mind – Mind
CALM Suicide prevention helpline | Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM)