When someone arrives at University Medical Center New Orleans after a traumatic event, it can be the beginning of the emotional challenges of coping with recovery. Whether the person has been in a car accident, work accident, violent incident, or other situation, the UMC team makes sure they receive comprehensive care. Dr. Erica Rajo, a trauma psychologist, leads the Trauma Recovery Team, a team of mental health professionals who work with clinicians to ensure that each patient’s physical and emotional needs are met. increase. Here, Dr. Rajo explains how the treatment works and why it’s important.
What is integrated medical service?
This means that mental health services are integrated into the care of the individual receiving treatment. The people I’m in are not coming to see a psychologist. They are here for another medical reason. After they arrive, my team will provide the patient and her loved ones with information about common trauma reactions and to see how they are doing mentally and emotionally. I will reach out to , and sometimes I want to talk right away. You may also entrust them with information about resources such as outpatient clinics and support groups. We offer several options, but also meet where the person is at the moment. They push nothing that they are not ready for.
How does mental health affect physical recovery after trauma?
Progress can be stunted if some people don’t go to physical therapy because they’re afraid to leave the house. Sleep has a huge impact on both emotional and physical functioning, so if you’re not sleeping because of depression, anxiety, or PTSD, your physical condition can also be affected. These are just two examples of him. Given this strong mind-body connection, we work closely with our patients’ primary care teams to explore how psychological factors influence an individual’s level of involvement in the treatment process and interactions with providers. We will help you understand how it affects you.
How do trauma patients react when you reach out?
People are more receptive than they are. Our visits are routine and we are always quick to communicate that they are part of our holistic care. I think it’s that people who don’t recognize signs of trauma or are not able to get that information right after something happens.
Do trauma patients experience psychological effects immediately after or after the event?
it depends. How a person perceives and reacts to an event is informed by many variables and is therefore context-specific and individualized. For example, past trauma exposure, direct or close personal experiences, social support, existing strengths, and coping resources. Other factors include the severity of the physical injury, insurance or financial stress, safety concerns, and whether anyone else was injured or died at the event.
There may be no signs of trauma or PTSD in the early stages, and symptoms may appear later. Common trauma reactions are compartmentalization or avoidance. People may push their thoughts aside and carry on, but may later be triggered by something that reminds them of the traumatic event. It’s important to note that only 30% will develop PTSD, so most people can return to their normal lives without experiencing significant emotional distress.
What is it like to work in a hospital or health system that places a high value on mental health care?
It’s amazing because even at other hospitals I’ve worked in, psychology in the medical setting hasn’t always been well received. I think you continue to recognize the importance of the aspect. So people here recognize the importance of addressing both the physical and mental aspects of care. We have also made many efforts to support healthcare workers and providers, as they may experience secondary trauma from treatment. By supporting the psychological well-being of patients and health care providers, the work that Trauma does with his recovery team reflects the hospital’s broader mission to provide trauma-based, patient-centered care to the community. increase.