Resilience from trauma: Examination of a gender-responsive trauma-informed mind-body program in Haiti

Background: A growing evidence-base supports the connection between trauma and disease. Research suggests that mindfulness practices, such as yoga and meditation, can lead to neurological and physiological changes that may counter the impact of trauma, and promote health and well-being. Following the 2010 earthquake in Haiti, Amnesty International reports an epidemic of violence and trauma among women and girls living in tent cities. It is believed that these women would benefit from tools garnered through integrative mindfulness programming. Purpose: This study examines the implementation and effectiveness of a culturally-sensitive, gender-responsive, trauma-informed mind-body (TIMBo) program delivered to Haitian community leaders in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. Based on a train-the-trainer model in which local leaders learn to facilitate programming, TIMBo offers an eight-module, accessible, research-based curriculum that includes mind-body practices and tools to support long-term trauma recovery. Methods: The research team conducted a formative study throughout the year-long TIMBo training of Haitian community leaders. Research staff conducted in-depth interviews using a standard protocol. Data were used to adapt the program for full implementation and evaluation in early 2013. Results: Participants reported increased access to and utilization of tools for coping with trauma recovery. Participants discussed utilizing tools with their children, as well as teaching tool utilization to other adults. Conclusions: TIMBo is a promising program that supports the mitigation of traumatic symptomology among female Haitian earthquake and abuse survivors. The program targets the need for a culturally-sensitive, gender-responsive and sustainable program to address the epidemic of violence and trauma facing Haitian women.