
Much of hurt in this world spreads from the words we choose to use when communicating with others. We've all heard of the power of our words. However, this seems to be an even more critical part of avoiding re-traumatization of an individual. Using language that is neutral, objective and non-triggering is fundamental to anyone dealing with a traumatized person. This can be through any part of the journey-from the original disclose of information; validating a person’s experience; providing clear instructions and expectations to discussing coping strategies. What might seem like a ‘normal’ term to one might come across as judgmental and laden with emotion to another. Language plays a key role to helping an individual gain self-respect by not reducing them to an identity synonymous only with their trauma.
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