Dr. Stephen-Claude A. Hyatt’s book Trauma, Grief, and Recovery – Trauma Is More Than PTSD explains why we can no longer ignore trauma as a problem unto itself. Dr. Hyatt draws on decades of clinical experience to offer a new way of thinking about how untreated trauma affects communities, healthcare systems, and society at large.
The Wide-Reaching Effects of Trauma
The effects of unaddressed trauma usually take a toll on more than just the individual. Chronic physical conditions, ranging from heart disease and diabetes to immune system disorders, are also linked to unresolved trauma in studies. Mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and substance abuse are also the common outcomes of this.
The individual effects of these lead to higher healthcare costs, lower workplace productivity, and strained community resources. Trauma, however, doesn’t necessarily leave individuals to deal with its aftermath on their own; schools, law enforcement agencies, social services, legitimate trauma treatment, and trauma debriefing and counseling services are often called upon to help manage them.
Trauma as a Public Health Issue
Prevention of problems and promotion of well being is the function of public health. When we put this lens to trauma, we move the conversation from reaction to prevention. Dr. Hyatt’s book spells out the necessity for a whole systems approach that involves early intervention, education, and community-based support.
This framework includes trauma in informed care, which includes policies and practices that recognize that trauma impacts large numbers of people and can be integrated. Trauma-informed systems, whether in healthcare, education, or social services, can do more to prevent further harm and heal.
What the Book Offers
Dr. Hyatt’s book helps readers see trauma from an individual and a societal perspective. It includes:
- Accessible Explanations: The book demystifies the science of trauma, making the effects and causes easy to understand.
- Actionable Solutions: Steps for addressing trauma within your community as an individual, family, or professional.
- Case Studies and Insights: Trauma-informed practices are illustrated with real-world examples of how they can make environments safer and healthier.
Putting trauma on the public health agenda, the book urges readers to step outside of themselves and envision how collective action can actually bring about change.
Why It Matters
Addressing trauma on a public health scale isn’t solely about reducing harm; it is about building stronger, more resilient communities. Dr. Hyatt’s book is a call to action for all to take your trauma seriously and intervene.
The trauma is personal, but the impact isn’t. As a public health issue, it is a starting point for creating a society that encourages recovery and promotes long-term well-being for all.
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