Amelia and the perfume (INTEGRA-07-EN)

In a crowded shopping mall, Amelia finds herself surrounded by a sea of people. She navigates through the colourful displays, trying to find the perfect gifts for her loved ones. As she enters a cosmetic store, a familiar scent of men's cologne drifts through the air.

In an instant, Amelia's heart skips a beat, and her body freezes. The scent is unmistakable—it is the same cologne her abuser wore during the years of heavy domestic violence she endured. The memories flood back, overwhelming her senses. The fragrance carries the weight of fear, pain, and shattered dreams.

Suddenly, the once-vibrant mall transforms into a blur of chaos. The cheerful chatter of shoppers blends with echoes of harsh words and screams from her past. Amelia's breathing grows shallow, and her palms become clammy. She feels trapped, as if the walls are closing in around her. Frantically searching for an escape, Amelia's gaze falls upon a nearby bench. She stumbles towards it, desperately needing a respite from the flood of memories that threaten to engulf her. Collapsing onto the bench, tears stream down her face, mixing with the anguish that welled up within her.

One saleswoman has observed Amelia. What should she do?

In a trauma-informed reaction to the situation, the saleswoman should demonstrate sensitivity, empathy, and respect for Amelia's boundaries. She should create a supportive environment, acknowledge the impact of trauma and aim to provide comfort while empowering Amelia to determine her own needs and seek assistance if desired:

The observant saleswoman, trained in recognizing signs of distress, approaches Amelia with a gentle and compassionate demeanour. She takes a few steps closer, maintaining a respectful distance, and speaks softly, understanding the sensitivity of the situation.

Saleswoman: "Excuse me, ma'am. I noticed that something seems to have triggered a strong emotional response for you. Are you okay? Can I be of any assistance?"

The saleswoman's tone conveys genuine concern, recognizing that Amelia may need support without intruding upon her personal space or overwhelming her further. By providing an opportunity for Amelia to express her needs or seek assistance, the saleswoman respects her autonomy and empowers her to make decisions about her own well-being.

Amelia, still overwhelmed by the memories and emotions flooding her, struggles to find her voice but appreciates the saleswoman's gentle approach. She manages to respond between tearful breaths.

Amelia: "I... I just need a moment. It's... it's the scent. It reminds me of something... painful."

The saleswoman, maintaining her compassionate attitude, acknowledges Amelia's feelings and validates her experience without prying for details.

Saleswoman: "I understand. I'm so sorry that you're feeling this way. Please take all the time you need. If there's anything I can do to support you or create a more comfortable environment, please let me know."

The saleswoman's words convey her commitment to providing a safe and supportive space for Amelia. She refrains from pressuring her with unnecessary questions and allows Amelia to dictate the pace of their interaction. Amelia, though still shaken, feels a glimmer of comfort in the saleswoman's empathetic response. She appreciates the acknowledgment of her feelings and the offer of assistance without intrusion. Taking a deep breath, Amelia musters the strength to respond.

Amelia: "Thank you. I think... I just need a moment to gather myself."

Saleswoman: "Of course, take all the time you need. I'll be nearby if you need anything at all. Remember, you're not alone."

The saleswoman steps back, respecting Amelia's need for space, while ensuring her availability if Amelia chooses to seek assistance or support later. She maintains a watchful eye from a distance, ready to offer help if requested, while allowing Amelia the necessary time and privacy to process her emotions.

INTEGRA Institut