Using concepts from trauma-informed care: Potential to inform health and wellness coaching for college students

Abstract

College students are struggling to maintain well-being, with mental health challenges becoming exceedingly disruptive. Health and wellness coaching can be utilized in the college setting in addition to counseling to connect college students with resources, provide support through accountability and unconditional positive regard, and promote personal growth. Trauma-informed care is an effective approach for supporting those who may be or are experiencing trauma and is shown to be relevant in the college setting. This paper describes a rationale for integrating trauma-informed care and health and wellness coaching to enhance overall college student well-being, foster academic achievement, and create a safe, inclusive environment for growth.

Keywords: College student well-being; health and wellness coaching; trauma-informed care.