Trauma in Canada

• Physical Health Effects:

  • Increased risk of cardiovascular disease
  • Weakened immune system
  • Chronic pain and fatigue
  • Sleep disturbances

• Mental Health Effects:

  • Higher rates of anxiety, depression, and PTSD
  • Difficulty regulating emotions
  • Impaired memory and concentration

• Impact on Personal Life:

  • Strained relationships due to emotional volatility or withdrawal
  • Reduced work productivity and increased absenteeism
  • Difficulty maintaining social connections
  • Increased risk of substance abuse as a coping mechanism

In workplace settings, providing trauma-informed support, including resources like October’s digital group sessions, can help employees manage stress and improve overall well-being.

Effects of High Trauma Stress on an Economy:

1. Reduced Workforce Productivity
   Trauma stress can lead to mental health issues like anxiety and depression, lowering concentration, decision-making ability, and overall work performance.

2. Increased Absenteeism and Presenteeism
   Employees may take more sick leave or be physically present but mentally disengaged, negatively impacting output.

3. Higher Healthcare Costs
   More trauma-related mental health issues increase demand on healthcare services, raising public and private healthcare spending.

4. Decreased Consumer Spending
   Individuals experiencing trauma stress may reduce spending, leading to lower demand for goods and services.

5. Workplace Turnover and Recruitment Challenges
   Trauma can cause burnout and resignation, increasing turnover rates and recruitment costs for employers.

6. Lower Economic Growth
   Combined effects on productivity, consumption, and labor supply can slow overall economic growth.

Supporting employee mental health through initiatives like October’s digital group sessions and assessments can mitigate these impacts and promote a healthier, more productive workforce.

• Increase Access to Mental Health Services: Fund and expand programs like trauma-informed counseling, crisis intervention, and affordable therapy options, including digital platforms like October for group sessions.

• Public Education and Awareness: Launch campaigns to reduce stigma around trauma and mental health, promoting early identification and seeking help.

• Workplace Support Programs: Encourage employers to implement trauma-sensitive policies, provide training for managers, and offer Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs).

• Community Support Networks: Build and support community groups that can provide peer support and resilience-building activities.

• Trauma-Informed Policy Making: Integrate trauma awareness into healthcare, education, and justice system policies to create safer, supportive environments.

• Early Intervention and Prevention: Develop programs targeting at-risk populations to prevent trauma or mitigate its impact early on.

• Provide Training on Trauma Awareness: Educate managers and staff on recognizing trauma symptoms and responding sensitively.
• Create a Safe Work Environment: Promote psychological safety where employees feel comfortable discussing their experiences without stigma.
• Offer Access to Professional Support: Partner with services like October for digital group sessions and mental health assessments tailored to trauma recovery.
• Implement Flexible Work Options: Allow flexible schedules or remote work to help employees manage stress and recovery.
• Develop Clear Policies: Establish clear procedures for reporting trauma-related incidents and accessing support.
• Encourage Peer Support: Facilitate peer support groups within the organization to foster connection and shared healing.