Unseen Wounds: Shedding Light on the Effects of Secondhand Trauma
Secondary trauma, otherwise known as vicarious trauma and second-hand PTSD, refers to a form of distress or trauma that's experienced indirectly by hearing details of or witnessing the aftermath of a traumatic experience by another person. The difference between secondary trauma and PTSD is that secondary trauma occurs after indirect exposure to threatening events (e.g., hearing patients' stories, delivering bad news to patients, observing intense emotions in others), while PTSD occurs due to a perceived direct threat to an individual. Second hand trauma may be invisible, but its impact is real and far-reaching.
Secondary trauma can manifest in various ways, affecting individuals emotionally, psychologically, and even physically. Individuals may experience heightened anxiety, depression, or anger, along with intrusive thoughts, flashbacks, or hypervigilance related to the traumatic event. Relationship challenges may arise, including withdrawal, trust issues, and strained relationships with others. Additionally, physical symptoms such as fatigue, insomnia, and physical ailments like headaches or stomach aches may occur.
Second-hand trauma disproportionately affects certain groups, with family members, friends, caregivers, and professionals in fields like healthcare, emergency response, and social work being particularly vulnerable. Family members and friends may experience vicarious trauma while supporting loved ones through their own traumatic experiences. Caregivers, including nurses and counselors, often bear witness to the suffering of others daily, leading to the accumulation of secondary trauma over time. Emergency responders face intense and frequent exposure to traumatic events, which can take a toll on their mental and emotional well-being.
Recognizing the unique challenges faced by these groups is essential in providing targeted support and resources to help them cope with the effects of secondhand trauma. Creating a supportive environment that fosters healing and recovery is paramount for both individuals directly affected by trauma and those experiencing its secondhand effects. It's crucial to emphasize the significance of self-care and seeking professional help, as taking care of one's mental and emotional well-being is essential for effectively coping with the aftermath of trauma. Engaging in self-care practices such as mindfulness, exercise, and hobbies can help mitigate the impact of secondhand trauma and promote resilience while seeking support from mental health professionals provides individuals with the tools and guidance needed to process their experiences and navigate their emotional reactions healthily. By cultivating a culture of empathy, understanding, and non-judgment, where individuals feel safe to express their emotions and seek help without fear of stigma or shame, we can create a community that prioritizes collective well-being and resilience in the face of adversity.
If you have experienced secondary trauma or work in a field where you are regularly exposed to other people’s trauma, know that it’s OK for you to seek support for yourself as well. Being there for others can take a toll. Practicing self-care and obtaining your own professional support models healthy behaviors for others. The therapists at LifeSpring are here to help if you need us!
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Written by: Chelsea Cowden, LGPC
Chelsea is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor at LifeSpring Counseling Services’ who cares about mental health advocacy and helping people navigate the aftermath of traumatic events.
