South Texas Health System Launches Trauma Survivors Network Support Group
Receiving treatment for the physical wounds of a traumatic injury is just one part of an individual’s healing. While medications and forms of rehab can help the body recover, the path to psychological recovery is not as clearly defined. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, individuals who have suffered a mild traumatic brain injury — which can result from falls, vehicle collisions, sports injuries and more — have an increased risk of developing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other major depressive disorders.
To help support the comprehensive recovery of trauma survivors, South Texas Health System has partnered with the American Trauma Society to bring the first Trauma Survivors Network Support Group to the Valley. The support group helps trauma survivors and their families rebuild their lives and regain confidence through learning coping skills and connecting with fellow survivors. Each session features a different topic; the group kicked off in November 2021 with Self Care: Healing After Trauma.
Learn More About the Trauma Survivors Network Support Group
"Surviving a traumatic physical injury is a healing process and people need to know they are not alone," said Veronica Silva, STHS McAllen Injury Prevention Coordinator. "Our trauma center supports our patients and their families through all phases of recovery, even after discharge. Our Trauma Survivors Network Support Group helps individuals feel empowered and offers a platform to share their story and positively impact others that may be going through similar situations."
Meetings are held the first Saturday of every month via zoom and are led by a trauma survivor and a health professional involved in trauma patient care; referrals to mental health and substance abuse services may be provided if needed.