How can you use trauma-informed care to de-escalate?

1 What is trauma-informed care?

Trauma-informed care is a way of interacting with people who have been exposed to traumatic events, such as violence, abuse, neglect, or disaster. Trauma can have lasting effects on the person's physical, mental, emotional, and social well-being, and can make them more vulnerable to stress, triggers, and negative coping strategies. Trauma-informed care aims to understand the person's history, needs, and strengths, and to avoid re-traumatizing them or causing further harm. It also involves respecting the person's autonomy, choice, and voice, and providing them with information, resources, and support.

2 How can trauma-informed care help with de-escalation?

Trauma-informed care can help with de-escalation by creating a sense of safety, trust, and connection with the person. When someone is in a state of distress, fear, or anger, they may perceive threats or dangers that are not real or exaggerated. They may also feel helpless, hopeless, or ashamed, and may act out or shut down. Trauma-informed care can help you to acknowledge the person's feelings and experiences, and to validate their emotions and perspectives. It can also help you to communicate clearly and respectfully, and to offer options and alternatives that can empower the person and reduce their stress.

3 What are some trauma-informed care principles for de-escalation?

When utilizing trauma-informed care for de-escalation, it's important to be aware of your own emotions, biases, and triggers, and practice self-care and self-regulation. Additionally, be respectful, compassionate, and non-judgmental, while also being attentive and active in the interaction. Transparency is key—honestly explain the purpose, expectations, and consequences of the interaction. Be flexible, collaborative, and supportive while involving the person in decision-making and problem-solving. Also be responsive, adaptive, and creative by tailoring your approach to the person's needs, preferences, and goals.

4 What are some trauma-informed care strategies for de-escalation?

In order to apply trauma-informed care for de-escalation, there are various strategies that can be employed. Establishing rapport and trust by using the person's name, introducing yourself, and expressing concern and care is a key step. Additionally, asking open-ended questions and using reflective statements to explore the person's feelings, thoughts, and needs can be beneficial. Affirmations and compliments should be used to acknowledge the person's strengths, efforts, and achievements. Normalizing and reframing statements can help the person view their situation from a different perspective and reduce stigma or shame. De-escalation statements and techniques should be used to calm the person and ease tension or hostility. Moreover, safety planning and coping skills can help the person identify triggers, manage emotions, and control behavior. Lastly, referrals and follow-up should be used to connect the person with appropriate services and supports in order to ensure continuity of care.

5 What are some trauma-informed care scenarios for de-escalation?

Trauma-informed care can be used to de-escalate different scenarios. For example, when a customer is angry and frustrated about a delayed order, you can validate their feelings and apologize for the inconvenience. You can also offer a discount, a refund, or a free gift as a gesture of goodwill. When a student is anxious and overwhelmed about an upcoming exam, you can empathize with their stress and anxiety, and remind them of their previous successes. For a coworker who is depressed and suicidal, you can express concern and care for their well-being, and acknowledge their pain and suffering. And when a patient is in pain and agitated, you can reassure them that they are in a safe place, and explain the procedures and treatments that they will receive. In each scenario, you can use trauma-informed care principles to communicate with the person, understand their situation, and help them find a solution.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?