The 6 N’s of Trauma-Informed Care
resource prepared by Raimer Rojas
Trauma-Informed Care • The C.A.R.E. Framework • SPICCESS Model • Humanitarian Crisis Sharing
The 6 N’s of Trauma-Informed Care provide a framework to support individuals affected by trauma. This approach promotes safety, awareness, and empowerment. Below are the steps to follow.
1. NOTICE
Become aware of your feelings/emotions in the present moment.
How to Practice Noticing:
Grounding Exercises: Focus on your 5 senses. What do you see, hear, smell, taste, and feel?
Mindfulness: Observe your thoughts and feelings/emotions without judgment.
Why It Matters: This helps you step out of a reactive state, reduces stress, and allows you to gain clarity.
2. NAME
Identify and express your feelings/emotions or experiences.
How to Practice Naming:
Reflect: Take a moment to reflect on how you feel physically and emotionally. Jot down your thoughts and reactions.
Communicate: Write down or speak aloud what you’re experiencing.
Why It Matters: Naming your feelings helps you process trauma and understand your reactions better.
3. NORMALIZE
Understand that your responses to trauma are natural and valid.
How to Practice Normalizing:
Educate Yourself: Learn about common trauma responses (like anxiety or emotional numbing).
Validate Your Feelings: Remind yourself that it’s okay to feel a range of emotions.
Connect with Others: Join support groups to share experiences.
Why It Matters: This reduces feelings of isolation and self-blame, fostering self-acceptance.
4. NAVIGATE
Make sense of your trauma and find healthy coping strategies.
How to Practice Navigating:
Problem-Solving: Address situations that trigger stress. What can you do about it? What will you do about it?
Self-Regulation: Use breathing exercises or go for a walk.
Prayer: Find peace and perspective through spiritual practices.
Why It Matters: Developing coping strategies builds resilience and helps manage triggers.
5. NURTURE
Provide support and compassion to feel safe and cared for.
How to Practice Nurturing:
Engage in Self-Care: Explore activities that promote relaxation, comfort and peace.
Holistic Wellness: Consider practices from the SPICCESS model (Social, Physical, Intellectual, Creative/Recreational, Career, Emotional, Spiritual, Service).
Why It Matters: Nurturing your well-being creates a sense of security and promotes healing.
6. NETWORK
Connect with supportive people and resources.
How to Practice Networking:
Build Relationships: Reach out to friends, family, or community services for support.
Share Openly With Family And Friends: Sharing your experiences with trusted friends and family can be a powerful step toward healing. It allows you to feel seen, validated, and supported in a safe, compassionate space. By opening up instead of keeping your emotions hidden, you lift a weight off your shoulders and welcome the support and compassion of those who care about you.
Join Groups: Engage with others who share similar experiences.
Why It Matters: Having a supportive network is essential for ongoing healing and resilience.
By following the 6 N’s of Trauma-Informed Care, you can understand, process, and heal from trauma. This approach nurtures a holistic sense of well-being and provides essential tools for managing stress, anxiety, and depression. Remember, healing is a journey, and you don’t have to go through it alone!