Why Trauma-Informed Care is Vital for Survivors of Human Trafficking
In Recognition of World Day Against Trafficking in Persons
Written by Senior Medical Officer – Dr Connie Dukas
1st May 2025
Introduction
Every year on July 30th, the world observes the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, a day dedicated to raising awareness about the devastating realities of human trafficking and reinforcing the global commitment to protect survivors. The 2023 theme, "Reach every victim of trafficking, leave no one behind," is a powerful reminder of our duty to ensure that every survivor receives comprehensive and compassionate support.
Among the many critical needs of survivors, mental health care often remains overlooked. Addressing trauma through intentional, informed care is essential for long-term recovery. At Synapse Azalea, a leading mental health treatment centre in Abuja, we prioritise trauma-informed care as a cornerstone of our support services for trafficking survivors.
Understanding Human Trafficking and Its Impact
Human trafficking is a serious crime involving the exploitation of individuals through force, fraud, or coercion. It manifests in many forms, including:
• Sexual exploitation
• Forced labour
• Domestic servitude
• Child trafficking
According to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), millions of people fall into the hands of traffickers each year, often lured by false promises of safety, work, or education.
The Impact on Survivors
The consequences of human trafficking are profound and long-lasting:
1. Physical harm: Injuries, chronic illnesses, and sexually transmitted infections
2. Psychological trauma: PTSD, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse
3. Emotional distress: Shame, guilt, fear, and feelings of helplessness
4. Social challenges: Difficulty forming healthy relationships or reintegrating into society
Trafficking often leaves deep emotional and psychological scars, making specialised mental health support a critical part of a survivor’s healing process.
What Is Trauma-Informed Care and Why It Matters
Trauma-informed care is an approach that recognises and responds to the impact of trauma on individuals. It goes beyond treatment by fostering physical, emotional, and psychological safety and by empowering survivors to regain control of their lives.
This model is especially crucial when working with survivors of human trafficking, who often carry complex, layered trauma.
1. Creating a Safe Environment
• Ensuring the care environment is welcoming and judgment-free
• Training staff to understand trauma and respond sensitively
• Building trust through consistent, compassionate interactions
2. Empowering Survivors
• Giving survivors agency over their treatment choices
• Encouraging self-directed goals and decision-making
• Providing life skills that support long-term independence
3. Building Strong Support Networks
• Connecting survivors with supportive family, peers, and community resources
• Facilitating peer-led support groups
• Coordinating with legal, medical, and social services
4. Addressing Mental Health Needs
• Offering therapy, counselling, and psychiatric care
• Using evidence-based interventions like CBT and trauma-focused therapy
• Tailoring treatment to each individual’s unique experience
5. Promoting Long-Term Healing and Recovery
• Supporting access to education, employment, and stable housing
• Encouraging personal growth and resilience
• Celebrating each milestone, no matter how small
How Synapse Azalea Is Supporting Survivors in Abuja
At Synapse Azalea, we understand that the road to recovery after trauma, especially in the case of survivors of human trafficking, often begins with a single conversation. Yet for many in our community, financial barriers prevent them from accessing even the most basic mental health support.
To bridge this gap, we offer free counselling sessions every Friday for two hours at our Abuja centre. These sessions are open to individuals who may not be able to afford therapy but still need professional support as a first step toward healing.
Free Friday Counselling Sessions – Expanding Access to Mental Health Care in Abuja
Our Friday sessions are designed to:
• Provide immediate, short-term psychological support
• Help individuals begin to process trauma in a safe, non-judgmental space
• Serve as an accessible entry point to mental health care for underserved and vulnerable populations
This initiative ensures that no one is left behind due to financial hardship. We believe that mental health care is a human right, not a privilege.
To sustain and expand this effort, we are actively partnering with government organisations and NGOS to secure ongoing funding and resources. These partnerships are critical to making this program more robust and far-reaching, allowing us to extend support to more individuals across Abuja and, eventually, beyond.
Free Counselling Hours:
Every Friday | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
📍 Synapse Azalea, Jahi Abuja (By Next Cash and Carry)
If you or someone you know could benefit from this service, we welcome you to walk in or contact our team in advance to schedule a session. Your healing journey matters, and we're here to support it.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the theme for this year’s World Day Against Trafficking in Persons reminds us of our collective responsibility to ensure that no survivor is left behind.
Trauma-informed care is essential in providing the compassionate and comprehensive support that trafficking victims need to heal and rebuild their lives. By prioritising their mental health and well-being, we can help survivors move from a place of victimisation to one of empowerment and resilience. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those affected by human trafficking.
At Synapse Azalea in Abuja, we are here to walk that journey with them—one step at a time.
REFERENCES
1. United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). (2023).Global Report on Trafficking in Persons 2022. Retrieved from [UNODC](https://www.unodc.org/unodc/en/human-trafficking/publications.html).
2. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). (2014).Trauma-Informed Care in Behavioral Health Services. Treatment Improvement Protocol (TIP) Series 57. Retrieved from [SAMHSA](https://store.samhsa.gov/product/TIP-57-Trauma-Informed-Care-in-Behavioral-Health-Services/PEP14-07-25-006).
3. Office for Victims of Crime (OVC). (2020). Human Trafficking Task Force e-Guide. A trauma-informed approach for serving survivors. Retrieved from [OVC](https://www.ovcttac.gov/taskforceguide/eguide/4-supporting-victims/43-using-a-trauma-informed-approach/.