Trauma and toxic stress are complicated and look different in everyone. Sometimes we might not even realize what we’re seeing in a young person is related to trauma. Here is some guidance that will help you recognize it and shape how you respond.
Helping Youth
Respond to Trauma
& Toxic Stress
How To Define
How To Recognize
How To Respond
How can we help?
As experts in positive youth development, we at Girls Inc. want to help you develop an understanding of trauma and toxic stress and build skills to support the young people in your lives who may be experiencing stressors brought on by COVID-19, the burdens of racism, or any other ongoing difficulty or adversity.
As a caring adult, you too can help support young people impacted by trauma or toxic stress.
The 4R’s : Key Elements
Realize, Recognize, Respond, and Resist.
A trauma-informed approach includes four essential elements. Learn more about them here.
Six Principles of using a trauma-informed approach with Young People
Explore the considerations and practical actions that you can take with the young people in your life who are navigating trauma and toxic stress.
1
Safety
Pay attention to what makes them feel safe and unsafe.
2
Trustworthiness & Transparency
Be honest and allow them to be a part of your decision making processes.
3
Peer Support
Encourage and support connecting with friends, and activities that allow them to explore interests.
4
Collaboration & Mutuality
Demonstrate collaboration by using language that conveys a partnership.
5
Empowerment, Voice and Choice
Empower by asking for their thoughts and opinions and listening to them.
6
Recognition of Cultural, Historical and Gender Issues
Affirm their experience by acknowledging the impact of oppression.Where can I learn more?
Now, more than ever before, is the time to build an understanding of trauma and toxic stress and explore ways to offer support to young people.
Resources
Girls Inc. + Mental Health: Find resources and information around supporting a girl’s mental health and well being.
Jed Foundation Mental Health Resource Center: Essential information about common emotional health issues which focuses on peer support, screenings and crisis response.
Mental Health America: A comprehensive website for relevant and culturally appropriate mental wellness and mental health care for all.
National Child Traumatic Stress Network Families and Caregivers Resources Catalog: A collection of resources for families, caregivers, or anyone with a young person in their life who has experienced trauma.
Parenting with ACES: Parent education, training and support resources on ACES (Adverse Childhood Experiences) from ACES Connection for parents and caregivers of youth impacted by adverse childhood experiences.
Racial Trauma is Real: A resource from the Institute for the Study and Promotion of Race and Culture with specific resources for recovery and healing from ongoing racial trauma.
TED MED Talk with Dr. Nadine Burke Harris: Pediatrician and California Surgeon General Dr. Nadine Burke Harris explores the impact of adversity on the developing brains of youth and across the life-span.
Crisis Support
Review warning signs and connect with support for a young person dealing with a mental health crisis through the Suicide Prevention Lifeline / 1 (800) 273- TALK | Support is available 24/7.
In some cases, learning of prior abuse necessitates reporting. Find more information from confidential crisis counselors from Childhelp.org / 1 (800) 4-A Child | Support is available 24/7.
Remember, trauma may manifest in children and teens in different ways. If you believe a young person in your life needs additional support, contact a mental health care professional or the appropriate authorities.
