information for CARD HOLDERs
What is the Trauma Card
The Healthwatch Essex Trauma Card has been created by the Healthwatch Essex Trauma Ambassador Group, a group of people with lived experience of trauma.
The card is designed to be a tool to empower cardholders to make those they are interacting with aware of when they are experiencing the effects of trauma, and to inform those in receipt of the card about trauma and how to more effectively support, and work with, those living with the effects of trauma.
All Trauma cardholders carry the card to present in health and care settings when they experience a situation which has generated a trigger from them.
Request a Trauma Card
We primarily partner with organisations to offer Trauma Cards to groups of people. If you are an individual wanting to carry a card for your own personal use, you can order one of the original Healthwatch Essex Trauma Cards for free here.
Trauma can be defined as an event, or series of events, which are very stressful, frightening, distressing and/or disturbing. Causes of trauma include domestic abuse, sexual abuse, exposure to crime and bereavement; however, it is very much an individual reaction and there is no exhaustive list of causes.
Trauma can be triggered at any stage in a person’s life and occurs when some kind of external factor causes them to recall the event which was traumatic to them. Again, triggers are very personal and hugely varied, but some common examples can include a smell, visual object or a certain word or phrase. The reactions caused by trauma are equally unique, but often can be likened to the symptoms of a panic attack. The instinct of the individual may well be to retreat, shut down on an emotional and/or communicative level, or to react with a desire to protect themselves. Reactions can manifest on a physical, emotional and psychological manner. The effects have a huge impact on the individual personally, not just in the moment when the trigger occurs but for some time after. They can be hugely debilitating and distressing for the individual concerned.
There are organisations who can offer you support in living with trauma. Your GP is always a good place to start, but you may also find the following helpful:
Whilst some of these sites may promote paid for services, these are not cited as being essential by Healthwatch Essex and are entirely the choice of the individual.
For a confidential discussion about your individual circumstances and signposting or referral to services specific to your needs and area, please contact the Healthwatch Essex Information & Guidance team. They are available Monday-Friday, 9am -5pm, to provide information, signposting and support. Outside of these times a voicemail can be left, and you will be called back at the earliest opportunity. We are here to assist individuals living with the effects of trauma with all aspects of their health, care and wellbeing, as well as their friends, families and professionals engaging with them.
