Red Ribbon Week is celebrated annually from October 23 to October 31 to raise awareness about the dangers of substance use disorders and the importance of living a substance-free life through substance use disorder prevention and education efforts. This initiative provides a unique opportunity for parents, educators, and communities to amplify the drug-free messages they impart to their children and youth throughout the year.

At The Harris Center for Mental Health and IDD, their steadfast commitment to trauma-informed care is uniquely positioned to assist people in Harris County coping with their individual traumatic events – whether it’s an accident, shooting or natural disaster. This includes the severe end of the trauma spectrum, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). 

Evelyn Urdiales Locklin, MA, LPC, Director, Emergency Services and Residential Programs, and Trauma Informed Care Implementation Team Lead at The Harris Center, serves as a knowledgeable guide in this complex landscape of trauma. 

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) can profoundly impact an individual's health and well-being, increasing their risk for physical and mental health conditions and social and economic challenges. It is essential for healthcare providers to understand this impact and provide trauma-informed care and support that is sensitive to the unique needs of those who have experienced adversity in childhood. This article explores the importance of providing such care to patients with ACEs and offers practical strategies for healthcare providers to support and care for these individuals effectively.