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Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) is observed every April to raise awareness about sexual violence, support survivors, education, and provide resources to those affected.
Trauma informed care recognizes the impact of trauma, and is a time for understanding how it can affect a person’s behavior, emotions, and interactions. Instead of asking “what’s wrong with you?” trauma informed care shifts the perspective to: “What happened to you?”
This approach helps provide a safe and more supportive setting for survivors of trauma. Trauma-informed care ensures physical and emotional security, trustworthiness and transparency, it encourages shared experiences and connections, connecting with individuals in decision-making, and empowering them by letting them make their own choices. This approach also encourages the to use their voice and to take back their autonomy. Another important quality of trauma informed care is having cultural awareness which includes respecting identity, background, and the survivor’s personal experience.
Being trauma informed matters during SAAM because survivors of sexual violence can be triggered by environments or interactions that may feel unsafe or controlling. Trauma informed care helps reduce the risk of causing further harm.
Many survivors will put off asking for help due to fear or a past negative experience. A more trauma-informed approach creates a place where people feel seen, heard, and respected. When individuals feel safe and supported, they are more likely to ask for help and move forward in their healing journey.
SAAM is not only about raising awareness, it’s about creating lasting change. Supporting survivors doesn’t always mean big gestures, it starts with listening, believing, and having safe spaces where healing can truly begin.
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