The prevalence of trauma in the United States, particularly in the form of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), is significant. About 6% of the U.S. population will experience PTSD at some point in their lives, with approximately 12 million American adults suffering from PTSD during any given year.
PTSD is most common among individuals aged 45 to 59 years old, with a prevalence rate of 9.2%. Among adolescents aged 13 to 17, about 5% experience PTSD. The condition affects females more than males, with a lifetime prevalence of 9.7% among female adults compared to 3.6% among male adults.
PTSD prevalence varies among veterans depending on their service area, with 11% to 23% of veterans experiencing PTSD within a given year. The prevalence is notably higher among military veterans between the ages of 18 and 29 years, at 29.3%, compared to veterans over the age of 60 years, at 4%
A Comprehensive Trauma Informed Assessment is a detailed evaluation process used by mental health professionals, social workers, and other practitioners. It is designed to understand the full impact of trauma on an individual’s life. This assessment takes into account not just the traumatic experiences themselves, but also the wide-ranging effects these experiences may have on the individual’s emotional, psychological, and social well-being.
The assessment is “trauma-informed” in that it is sensitive to the complexities of trauma, including potential triggers and the individual’s responses to trauma. It typically involves:
- Gathering a detailed history of the trauma exposure.
- Evaluating the individual’s current trauma symptoms and overall mental health.
- Assessing the individual’s coping mechanisms and resilience.
- Identifying areas of functioning affected by trauma, such as relationships, work, or schooling.
- Formulating a treatment plan that acknowledges the trauma’s impact and integrates strategies for trauma recovery.
The goal of such an assessment is to create a supportive environment where the individual feels safe to share their experiences and to provide a comprehensive understanding that informs the most effective, empathetic, and individualized care plan.
