What are the 5 R’s in Trauma Informed Practice?

Trauma can be caused by an event, or an ongoing incident. It is a distressing or frightening episode, beyond our control. The effects of trauma can be long-lasting and impact on life-quality.

Trauma-informed practice is an approach to health and care interventions, which is grounded in the understanding that trauma can impact a person as a whole.

5 R’s

Regulation. This is the process where we override fight-or-flight responses and turn them into the neurological habit of rest and recovery. We can do this by practising mindfulness, such as breathing exercises or releasing clenched muscles.

Reflection. This can help to unearth the truth around a situation and clarify our feelings or understanding of it.

Relationships. Looking at how trauma can affect our relationships is essential, so that we can rebuild connections with those who accept you for who you truly are.

Respite and rest. This is where we take intentional breaks that limit our exposure to trauma and allow us to rest.

Reasons. This is part of our human nature, where we seek to gain an understanding of why things happened, and how they were significant.

Trauma Informed Practice Training

Specialist providers of trauma informed practice training can help to educate staff, where their role involves supporting people who have experienced trauma.

It covers how to address people with trauma sensitively, emphasising the importance of physical, emotional, and psychological safety. It also looks at ways in which support can be provided to empower people to take back control of their own lives.

Health and Fitness