Mental Health

Fostering Healing Through Trauma-Informed Practices

There is a strong link between exposure to traumatic events and substance use problems. Many people who have experienced traumatic events use alcohol or drugs to help them deal with pain, feelings, and symptoms associated with trauma. Conversely, people with alcohol or drug use problems are more likely to experience traumatic events than people who do not experience problems with drugs and alcohol. 

Head Start programs can play a significant role in reducing the negative impacts of substance use and trauma on young children and their families. Programs can adopt trauma-informed practices and strategies such as creating a physically and emotionally safe space for children and families. It is important to understand how trauma impacts children, families, staff, communities, and systems.