Ignoring safety has serious consequences. Research shows that when staff feel emotionally unsafe—whether from poor communication, inconsistent leadership, or overwhelming demands—rates of turnover and burnout climb, leading to service disruptions that directly affect clients. Conversely, organizations that embed safety practices reduce burnout, retain staff longer, and foster more consistent, compassionate client care.

Research shows that environments that ignore staff well-being contribute to worse outcomes for both employees and the people they serve (Center for Health Care Strategies, 2023). But there is another way forward. By committing to becoming trauma-informed workplaces, we can design systems that enable staff to thrive, supervisors to lead with confidence, administrators to strengthen stability, and clients to receive the services they need.