Post-Traumatic Stress in Social Work

Over 60% of all individuals around the world have been exposed to traumatic events. Responses to those events range from pathological symptoms and vulnerability to healthy responses, hardiness, and resilience. These responses derive from individual, family, community, and social resources, as well as from the ability of individuals to cope with the events, and to work through the consequences of their exposure. This article relates to the role of social workers before, during, and after traumatic events. A brief definition and description of the main responses to these situations is provided, followed by a discussion of social workers' approaches and strategies of intervention. Implications for educational and professional training, the cost of care, and for practice are also discussed.