Traumatic experiences like being the victim of abuse or neglect, living through a natural disaster, or experiencing a health crisis can trigger feelings of anxiety and depression that may require professional treatment. However, many people misunderstand what trauma-informed care involves.
Debunking Myths About Trauma-Informed Mental Health Care
At Raleigh Oaks Behavioral Health in Garner, North Carolina, we provide trauma-informed care for men and women who are suffering from anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, depression, schizophrenia, or a dual diagnosis. In this post, we share some common myths about trauma-informed care and explain what you can actually expect when you visit our facility.
Myth #1: Trauma Only Happens to Certain People
The reality is that trauma is surprisingly common. It can affect anyone regardless of age, gender, socioeconomic status, or background. Recognizing the prevalence of trauma among all demographic groups is a key principle of trauma-informed care.
At Raleigh Oaks, we understand that many of our clients may have experienced trauma, even if it’s not the primary reason they’re seeking treatment. We create a safe and welcoming environment for all, acknowledging that trauma can take many forms and that each person responds to trauma differently.
Myth #2: You Should Just “Get Over It”
Healing from trauma is a process that takes time. Trauma-informed care acknowledges that trauma’s effects can be long-lasting and complex—requiring patience, understanding, and proper support.
The inpatient and outpatient treatment plans we offer at our Garner facility are personalized to fit each client’s unique needs. We know that healing is not linear. When you work with our treatment team, we offer ongoing support and adjust strategies as needed throughout your journey.
Myth #3: Talking About Trauma Will Only Make You Feel Worse
This is one of the most damaging myths about trauma. While it’s true that discussing painful events from your past can be difficult, trauma-informed care provides a supportive environment where you can process your experiences at your own pace. The goal of trauma-informed care is to help you take control of the narrative—empowering you to become the victor instead of the victim.
Our therapists are trained in techniques like Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) that allow for safe processing of traumatic memories. We also teach grounding techniques to help you stay present and calm during sessions—and whenever you start to feel overwhelmed by events in your day-to-day life.
Myth #4: Trauma-Informed Care Is Only About Addressing Past Events
Processing past experiences is important, but trauma-informed care also focuses on building resilience, developing coping skills, and improving your overall well-being. You can’t change the past, but you can move toward a brighter future.
At Raleigh Oaks, our services include mindfulness training, stress management workshops, and skill-building groups. These services focus on enhancing your current quality of life and preparing you for future challenges. We also offer opportunities to connect with others who have similar experiences through support groups and peer mentoring programs—reminding you that you are not alone in your quest to better manage your mental health.
Myth #5: If You Can’t Remember Trauma, It Doesn’t Affect You
Even if we don’t have clear memories of the events, traumatic experiences can still have lasting impacts. For example, someone who lost a parent in a tragic accident when they were a toddler may not clearly remember the death—but there’s no doubt the rest of their childhood would have been shaped by that loss.
Trauma-informed care recognizes that the body and subconscious mind can hold trauma, affecting our behaviors and responses. Our behavioral health treatment center encourages the use of holistic therapies like yoga, art, and music therapy that can help clients access and process adverse childhood experiences and other types of trauma through non-verbal means.
Myth #6: Seeking Help After a Trauma Is a Sign of Weakness
This couldn’t be further from the truth. Human beings thrive with connection and support. Recognizing the need for help when you’re struggling with your mental health is a sign of strength and self-awareness.
At Raleigh Oaks, we strive to cultivate a culture of empowerment and respect. Each member of our staff is trained to recognize and reinforce the resilience you’ve demonstrated by choosing to seek treatment. Your voice matters—and we see you as an equal partner in your recovery.
Myth #7: Once You Start Therapy, You’ll Have to Relive Your Trauma Constantly
Nobody likes the idea of being asked to constantly face their trauma, which is why trauma-informed care respects your boundaries and pace. Processing trauma is part of your treatment, but it’s done in a controlled manner that prioritizes your comfort and stability.
We use a phase-based approach to trauma treatment, ensuring stabilization and safety before any trauma processing begins. You always have control over what you share and when. We’re here to help when you’re ready.
Myth #8: There’s No Hope for Full Recovery
Every day gives you hope for the future. Regardless of the challenges you’ve experienced in the past, significant healing and growth are possible via trauma-informed care. Recovery looks different for everyone, but improvement and a better quality of life are absolutely within reach.
At Raleigh Oaks, we celebrate every step of progress—no matter how small. To learn more—or to schedule a free, confidential assessment—contact us today.
