There is a strong body of research that demonstrates the explicit link between physical injury and mental health. Studies have shown post-traumatic stress disorder, depression and anxiety are frequent sequelae associated with traumatic injuries. Yet, there is often a delay in the recognition/diagnosis of these conditions due to lack of awareness, limited infrastructure to support this need and/or inability to access the appropriate care needed. This is particularly true in regions where mental health is stigmatized, or there is a distinct lack of resources; often the two are not mutually exclusive.

 

It is equally important to recognize that not all patients who suffer traumatic injury will develop a mental health disorder. There are multiple trajectories a patient may follow, some thrive after a significant traumatic event, displaying clear evidence of post traumatic growth, linked to pre-injury resilience levels.

 

This webinar aims to unpack mental health in relation to traumatic injuries, highlighting the multiple trajectories, the role of social determinants of health, health equity and practical tools for managing the psychological component of trauma care. The concept of trauma informed care will be introduced as a mechanism of encapsulating the above themes.