Trauma-informed leadership is a way of understanding that everyone has different emotional experiences that may affect their workplace behaviour. It is important to be aware of these individual experiences to create a more supportive and effective work environment.
A workplace should commit to becoming more trauma-informed to provide better care to their community. To do this, you must be focusing on four fundamental principles: compassion, appreciation, resilience, and empowerment. There are various reasons to become a trauma-informed leader. Keep reading below.
Everyone May Have Trauma
Trauma-informed leaders can create an environment where everyone feels safe, respected and valued. They know that trauma can have a lasting impact on people and that it is essential to address it in a way that is not harmful.
Trauma Affects Organizational Functions
Trauma-informed leadership is a way of leading that takes into account the fact that some people in the workplace have experienced trauma. This type of leadership understands that trauma survivors may have a more difficult time with things like executive functioning and may sometimes have emotional outbursts. Trauma-informed leadership aims to help those who have experienced trauma feel safe and supported in the workplace.
Trauma-informed leaders consider an individual’s past experiences with trauma when approaching a situation. This means they focus on understanding what has happened to an individual rather than what is wrong with them. This type of leader is vital in creating an overall environment within an organization that is beneficial for all employees.
Trauma-Informed Leadership Suits Any Industry
Trauma-informed care helps organizations become trauma-informed institutions. The four phases are awareness, sensitivity, response, and information. This model can help organizations better understand and respond to the needs of trauma survivors.
Self-Care Should Be Given Priority
If leaders cannot take care of themselves, they will not be able to take care of others. Researchers have found that leaders need to be aware of trauma and stress risks and prioritize self-care. This will set a good example for others to follow.
Leading with Empathy Is a Must
Traumatic experiences can have a negative and life-altering effect on a person. Trauma-informed leaders are more understanding of how these experiences can affect a person and are thus more equipped to deal with any employment challenges that may arise. These leaders exhibit empathy by being non-judgmental, admitting mistakes, and focusing on others’ well-being.
Trauma-Informed Leadership Empowers
For people who have experienced trauma, one of the main issues is that they feel like they didn’t have control over what happened to them. A big part of healing is learning to trust yourself, others, and the world again. Therefore, a management style that tries to control and motivate employees through micromanagement will only create more mistrust and cause more harm.
Trauma-informed leaders create work environments that are safe and empowering for employees. They promote open communication and dialogue so that all voices can be heard. They check in frequently to see how the work environment functions and ensure everyone feels safe and included.
Conclusion
Trauma-informed leadership at work can help create a safer and more supportive working environment for employees who have experienced trauma. By being aware of the signs and symptoms of trauma and providing employees with resources and support, leaders can help create a workplace that is more responsive to the needs of employees who have experienced trauma.
Trauma-informed leaders are those who understand the reality and nuance of trauma. They work to become change agents in their workplace to help those who have experienced trauma. This type of leader is essential in creating a safe and productive environment for all.
Are you interested in trauma-informed training? Turn to Gwizhii Institute of Learning. We work from a trauma-informed and culturally sensitive lens. Our approach inspires participants to engage in activities in a way that honours the humanity and dignity of all. Book a workshop now.