Stress- and trauma-sensitivity (basic principles)
Women and girls affected by violence will frequently experience feelings of powerlessness and isolation. In order to empower them effectively and protect them from re-traumatisation, medica mondiale relies on a stress- and trauma-sensitive approach. This applies both during direct contact with survivors and also as part of its cooperation with partner organisations and other colleagues.
This approach is based on the following principles, which provide practical guidance. They counteract the psychological and social dynamics triggered by traumatic experiences of violence, helping to stabilise the person affected.
1. Security
- Reducing fear and stress
- Promoting external and internal security
- Creating self-confidence, and trust towards other people
2. Empowerment
- Promoting an experience of self-efficacy
- Increasing self-esteem
3. Solidarity and connection
- Acknowledging the suffering, bearing in mind any feelings of shame and guilt
- Conveying an experience of solidarity, connection and social participation
- Adopting an integrated, holistic view of the affected person in their social environment
4. Organisational care and self-care
- Promoting skills to deal with stress
- Awareness of divisive dynamics within groups
- Preventing of indirect traumatisation and burnout
- Enhancing resilience when dealing with existential crises
Updated: 01/2024
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