Nationwide, millions of children, adults, and veterans have endured a traumatic experience which, left untreated, can have lasting health consequences. In the face of increased social isolation and this pandemic, Americans’ exposure to trauma is on the rise. While conversations surrounding the Coronavirus rightly focus on our physical health, we can’t neglect the toll it has taken on our mental health as well. But in what ways can we better prioritize our mental health and support those in our communities dealing with trauma?

On this special episode, Rep. Gallagher examines the concept of trauma-informed care, a transformative way to help millions of Americans overcome the long-term effects of trauma. To do so, he is joined by Wisconsinites who helped champion this practice across the state: Tonette Walker, former First Lady of Wisconsin; Amy Herbst, Vice President of Mental and Behavioral Health at Children’s Hospital in Milwaukee; Ann Leinfelder Grove, President and CEO at SaintA’s; and Peg Burrington, Library Director at Waupaca Municipal Library.

These individuals not only helped integrate trauma-informed care within their communities, but helped make Wisconsin the country’s first trauma-informed state. With their help, Rep. Gallagher breaks down why we need to prioritize mental health and how we can all use trauma-informed care to help our communities get through these challenging times.