Defining Trauma and a Trauma-Informed COVID-19 Response

The ubiquitous exposure to COVID-19 argues for governments to use a trauma-informed response as a universal precaution, with the goal of promoting the recovery and resilience of their residents. How a system defines trauma will drive its administrative policies, research, and clinical services. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's Concept of Trauma and Guidance for a Trauma-Informed Approach offers governments a framework to define trauma and incorporate trauma-informed principles and tasks into their COVID-19 responses.