Trauma postvention response in Manitoba: coping with trauma and disasters

Abstract

Manitoba utilises three different trauma "postvention" services and approaches to assist responders (including emergency services, government and non-governmental organisations) and communities affected by trauma and disaster. A coordinated response is required to assist those affected utilising: Community Trauma Postvention and Critical Incident Stress Management services and a multifaceted psychosocial support approach. It is important to recognise the role and place of each service and approach to ensure all those affected have an opportunity to have their needs met in a comprehensive and efficient manner. This paper briefly describes the concept of "postvention" and the situations in which these "postvention" services and approaches were developed and/or utilised in Manitoba and internationally.