Trauma impacts people of all ages. Trauma-informed care recognizes this and approaches care with sensitivity and compassion for everyone because we don’t know what they’ve experienced.

University Health Institute for Trauma-Informed Care provides training and education about caring for those who have experienced trauma.

Trauma is a response to a disturbing event that is challenging to cope with. Trauma may cause feelings of helplessness, a lack of self-awareness and the inability to effectively process emotions and experiences.

Trauma can have lasting effects on your physical, mental, behavioral, social and/or spiritual well-being. 

Examples of Trauma 

• Childhood neglect
• Living with a family member with mental health or substance use disorders
• Physical, sexual and emotional abuse
• Poverty
• Racism, discrimination and oppression
• Sudden separation from a loved one or death
• Violence in the community, war or terrorism

Trauma and Public Health

Trauma-informed care is a necessary component of public health because it recognizes the lasting impact an event can have on a person. 

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are traumatic events that occurred before the age of 18. Research suggests that people with one or more ACEs have increased risk of chronic disease as adults.

University Health Resources

University Health Institute for Trauma-Informed Care

The Institute for Trauma-Informed Care offers online training and education sessions to the public.

Community Resources

Child Advocates San Antonio (CASA)

Child Advocates San Antonio recruits court-appointed volunteers to advocate for children who have experienced abuse or neglect. 

Family Violence Prevention Services  

Family Violence Prevention Services provides residential and non-residential clients shelter, transitional housing, counseling for adults, children, families, and legal services.

Family Service

Family Service provides a variety of services that empower individuals to transform their lives by addressing the social determinants of health.

The Ecumenical Center for Education, Counseling and Health

The Ecumenical Center provides counseling and support groups for people seeking mental and emotional healing.

The Children’s Bereavement Center of South Texas 

The Children’s Bereavement Center of South Texas provides grief support programs for children through young adulthood.

The Center for Health Care Services

The Center for Health Care Services provides integrated care to improve the lives of children and adults with mental health conditions, substance use challenges, and intellectual or developmental disabilities.