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Vicarious Trauma

Overview


Vicarious trauma sneaks up on you when you are exposed to traumatic events of others, even if indirectly.

​Info Sheet:

  • What is Vicarious Trauma?
  • Common Language you didn’t know described it
  • Signs and Symptoms to Watch For
  • Strategies for Managing Your Emotional Health
  • Other resources
Info Sheet

Interactive Quiz:

  • Could Vicarious Trauma be affecting you?
  • Take our brief quiz to understand if vicarious trauma might be affecting you. Get personalised tips and strategies for better emotional wellness.
  • Receive a comprehensive report

(Approx: 5-10 min)

Take The Quiz

What is Vicarious Trauma?

Vicarious trauma sneaks up on those exposed to traumatic events, even if only indirectly. Whether you’re a professional in a caring capacity or someone who deeply empathises with the hardships of others, understanding this form of trauma is crucial. Discover its signs, potential effects on your life, and effective management strategies

Common Language around Vicarious Trauma

  • Carrying the weight of the world: Used to express the burden of constantly supporting or empathising with others in distress.
  • Feeling drained: A common description of the running out of energy associated with continuous exposure to traumatic stories.

Common Language around Vicarious Trauma

  • Emotional burnout: Refers to feeling drained and exhausted from dealing with emotional demands.
  • Secondhand stress: A way to describe how stress can be ‘caught’ from others, similar to catching a cold. ​

Common Symptoms of Vicarious Trauma

  • Emotional: Persistent sadness, anger, irritability, or feelings of helplessness and numbness.
  • Physical: Unexplained headaches, gastrointestinal problems, muscle tension, and changes in sleep and appetite.
  • Interpersonal: Increased conflict in personal relationships, feeling less connected to others, and mistrust.

Common Symptoms of Vicarious Trauma

  • Cognitive: Difficulty concentrating, cynicism, negativity, and intrusive thoughts of the trauma.
  • Behavioural: Withdrawal from social activities, decreased enjoyment in previously pleasurable activities, and avoidance of traumatic reminders.

Ways of managing Vicarious Trauma

  • Education: Learn about vicarious trauma. Understanding how your feelings can be a common response and how that could help you feel less isolated and more empowered to seek solutions.
  • Professional Support: Consult with a mental health professional who can provide therapy or counselling. Professionals trained in dealing with trauma can offer valuable insights and coping strategies.
  • Self-Care Routines: Develop and maintain a self-care routine that includes physical activities, hobbies, or relaxation techniques. Regular exercise, adequate sleep, and healthy eating can greatly improve your physical and mental health.
  • Mindfulness and Meditation: Practice mindfulness exercises or meditation to help manage stress and enhance your awareness of your own mental state.

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