Fort Simpson (Mar 03/06) - When Stephen Kakfwi was three, he was run over by his uncle's truck.

Kakfwi, former premier for the NWT, remembers being unable to move because his rubber boots were stuck in mud as the truck headed towards and over him. According to his family, he didn't speak for a year.

Stephen Kakfwi provided entertainment at the opening feast after sharing his experiences with trauma. - Roxanna Thompson/NNSL photo

This was Kakfwi's first experience with trauma. He shared this story and others on Feb. 20 at a feast to launch a week-long workshop held in Fort Simpson on working with trauma in mental health and addictions.

Trauma is very common, said Yvonne Haist, one of three instructors from the Mandala counselling group in British Columbia.

Any life event that is overwhelming can produce trauma, said Haist. People who have been traumatized are often hyperactive and prone to rage, violence and depression. They can also have a lot of anxiety and be easily startled.

Trauma can have a life-long effect, impacting a person's health and sense of well-being and their relationships with others, said Haist.

During the workshop, hosted by Deh Cho Health and Social Services, more than 32 participants learned how to listen to stories of trauma in a way that makes the person feel more settled, so they can fully digest their traumatic experience, she said.

Residential schools have been a major source of trauma. Experiences from the schools are still coming out, said Dolphus Codille.

Alcohol-related trauma is also common, said Codille, a councillor with the Acho Dene Koe First Nations in Fort Liard. Codille came to the workshop to gain a better understanding of the experiences people have been through.

"In order to work with people, you have to understand them," said Codille.

The workshop also provided a framework of support to help those who work with people with trauma.

Sharon Allen, who provides homecare with Deh Cho Health and Social Services in Fort Simpson, said the trick is to find a balance between helping others and helping yourself.

"I think a lot of times people forget to stop and say 'I'm important' before they try to help another person," she said.

In dealing with trauma, Haist said she is always impressed by people's resilience and their ability to heal.

"There is a lot of strength here for working through the trauma people have experienced," said Haist.