Why Is Trauma Important?

Trauma is a broad term used to define and describe the emotional responses of an extremely stressful occurrence. The effects of trauma are wide-range in length and severity depending on the circumstances of the incident and the individual it affects. Trauma is influential and affects more than just the individual. The consequences of experiencing trauma are significant in its impairment and change must be done today to help individuals cope with the effects of trauma. That is not to say that people are incapable of coping and recovering from trauma by themselves, however, research has shown that trauma can lead to debilitating impairment if one does not use the proper coping skills. Trauma has been in existence since the beginning of time and is part of life. It occurs all over the world and is influential in its impact to its surrounding environments. As life evolves throughout the years, so does the trauma that is endured and at a rapid pace. Therefore, it is so crucial to not only try to reduce traumatic experiences before it occurs but also to use existing coping skills and resiliency as well as develop and implement new ones as needed. Trauma can be overcome through the right coping skills and resiliency. The power of resiliency is immeasurable.
Resiliency gives strength, wisdom and power which is much more than just the ability to overcome the challenges that result from trauma. As a mental health counseling master’s program student, I have had the opportunity to intern in a variety of clinical settings and have encountered many clients who have all had their own share of traumatic experiences.
It has been through these experiences, but not limited to these alone, that I wish to advocate for them through quality education, knowledge and training. Given this opportunity to learn and grow in the area of trauma and resiliency, I will bring back what I have learned and not only continue to learn, grow and use what I have learned but also open up centers within my communities and abroad to help train others. It starts with one but it can impact the world in a powerful and profound
way. It is my desire to learn the consequences and coping techniques of trauma and theory and practices of resiliency. Furthermore, learning about how to prepare our community for the unforeseen acts of terrorism and disaster would empower others and help conquer the detrimental effects of trauma. With the growing acts of terrorism and natural disasters, it is necessary to implement clinical interventions that will help heal. However, if one does not learn and practice the proper interventions, it can become more harmful than good. As mental health counselors and health professionals, it is our duty to not only advocate for our potential clients but also do all we can to educate and train ourselves efficiently and respectively so that we can help those we serve. Empowering our clients with what we have learned will be exponentially powerful because it will empower those affected by trauma to overcome the effects through resiliency and effective coping skills.
Thank you,
Rachael Santana