The Counselor Hygienist-Kandice Swarthout, RDH, LPC

Listening with empathy can help someone feel less alone. 💙

Excited to be speaking with Dental Learning on an important topic for healthcare professionals.

Looking forward to sharing awareness, education, and practical guidance on recognizing human trafficking in the dental setting. 🦷

🗓 May 28, 2026
🎓 1 Live CE Webinar

A lack of ID, phone, wallet, or control over personal belongings may be a sign that someone is experiencing abuse, exploitation, or trafficking.

Healthcare professionals are in a unique position to notice these red flags and help create a safe space for vulnerable individuals who may not be able to ask for help themselves. 💙

Think you know the answer? 👀
No cheating — drop your answer in the comments below. 👇

Understanding trauma means recognising that people can be affected not only by what happens to them directly, but also by what they witness happening to others. Awareness like this helps us respond with greater empathy, care, and compassion. 💙

Sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is simply start the conversation. 💙

A compassionate conversation can help someone feel seen, heard, and supported.

Here are a few ways to start:
• Choose a private and calm environment
• Speak gently and without judgement
• Use supportive phrases like:
“I’ve noticed you haven’t seemed yourself lately.”
“I’m here to listen if you want to talk.”
• Avoid dismissing their feelings or rushing the conversation

🚩 What if the patient is not the one answering the questions?

When a patient is not allowed to speak for themselves, is constantly monitored, or another person controls the conversation, it may be more than concern — it could be a red flag.

Healthcare professionals are in a unique position to notice these signs and help protect vulnerable individuals through awareness, compassion, and safe support. 💙

Recognizing the signs of trauma, both direct and indirect, helps us better support ourselves and others. 💙

This is known as secondary traumatic stress or vicarious trauma.

Witnessing another person suffer can affect mental, emotional, and even physical wellbeing. This is commonly experienced by healthcare workers, first responders, caregivers, teachers, and advocates who regularly support people through traumatic situations.

✅ Recognizing trauma responses is an important step toward creating safer, more compassionate environments for everyone.

Not every sign of trauma is visible.

Fearful or withdrawn behaviour, avoiding eye contact, nervousness, or unusual silence may indicate that someone is experiencing abuse or exploitation.

As healthcare professionals, staying observant and creating a safe space can help patients feel seen, heard, and protected.

Your awareness could make a difference. 💙