Bhutan Takes a Leap Forward in Mental Health with Groundbreaking Trauma Training

In a pioneering effort to bolster mental health support across Bhutan, the Chithuen Phendey Association (CPA) partnered with East Tennessee State University from the United States to deliver a comprehensive four-day training program on Trauma-Informed Care and Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs). This landmark initiative marks the first of its kind in the kingdom, bringing together 30 dedicated professionals from schools, healthcare facilities, Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) centers, community organizations, and rehabilitation institutions.

The intensive training, conducted over four days, was meticulously designed to equip participants with the essential knowledge and skills to support individuals grappling with trauma. By focusing on both children and adults, the program aims to empower educators, healthcare providers, and community leaders to identify and effectively respond to traumatic experiences, thereby fostering environments conducive to healing and resilience.

Dawa Penjor, a programme officer with CPA, emphasized the organization’s evolving approach to mental health. “Our previous initiatives primarily addressed the symptoms of trauma,” Penjor explained. “Recognizing the need to tackle the root causes led us to adopt evidence-based strategies like trauma-informed care and ACEs prevention.”

Trauma-Informed Care and ACEs are globally recognized methodologies that address the fundamental causes of various physical, mental, and social challenges. Research underscores the profound impact of childhood trauma, linking adverse experiences to chronic diseases, addiction, mental health disorders, and even premature mortality. By intervening early, the CPA aims to prevent these long-term negative outcomes and build a resilient society.

Megan Quinn, a professor at East Tennessee State University, highlighted the training’s objective to shed light on the prevalence and impact of adverse childhood experiences in Bhutan. “Understanding these negative childhood experiences is crucial because they significantly increase the risk of adverse health outcomes in adulthood,” Quinn stated. “Adopting a trauma-informed lens means creating safe, supportive environments where trust and respect are paramount.”

Participants like Rinchen Yangzom, proprietor of Blossom ECCD in Wangdue Phodrang, are already planning to implement their new skills. “I intend to prioritize each child’s individual needs, incorporate mindfulness practices, and utilize play and art therapy,” Yangzom shared. “These strategies will help create a trauma-informed environment that supports the healthy development of children in my care.”

Ugyen Kelzang, another participant, reflected on the training’s impact on her perspective. “Understanding how adverse childhood experiences affect individuals’ health, relationships, and overall well-being has deepened my empathy,” Kelzang said. “It reinforces the importance of fostering safe and supportive community environments.”

The training also emphasized the importance of recognizing trauma signs, enabling participants to identify and address these issues proactively. This initiative is part of CPA’s broader mission to combat rising challenges related to drug use, mental health issues, suicides, and non-communicable diseases in Bhutan.

Dawa Penjor articulated the vision driving CPA’s efforts: “With prevention and early intervention, we can break the cycle of trauma. Our goal is to build a society that not only heals trauma but also promotes resilience, safety, and well-being. This training is a significant step toward achieving that vision.”

As Bhutan continues to advance its mental health landscape, initiatives like the CPA’s trauma training signify a crucial commitment to addressing the underlying causes of societal challenges and fostering a healthier, more resilient population.

Total
0
Shares
Related Posts