Despite the evidence – why are we still not creating more trauma informed mental health services?

Abstract

PurposeDespite evidence that exposure to traumatic events can be an important antecedent to a range of serious and chronic mental health problems – it appears that within the British National Health Service at least, this is still not fully understood nor acted upon. This paper aims to examine this evidence and asks why these findings have not been fully implemented in terms of updating practice.Design/methodology/approachA literature search was undertaken alongside relevant British DH policy. This resulted in a subsequent policy analysis.FindingsAlthough there have recently been changes in recommendation in clinical practice (e.g. CPA guidance) and policy (No Health without Mental Health) it appears that although some knowledge in this area has been changed into policy, its implementation remains “patchy”.Practical implicationsThis short paper outlines some of the evidence, examines current issues and highlights a possible pathway which might be of value in addressing this.Originality/valueThis short paper highlights traumatic exposure as an important antecedent to a range of mental health issues and highlights ways in which this may be assessed and, where relevant, addressed.