Secondary Traumatization Considered
In the public discourse about trauma, we often hear about Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and complex PTSD. The majority of the conversation seems to be around recognizing the signs of primary trauma, identifying its origins, the after-effects and therapeutic approaches to these issues. We seem to hear much less often about secondary traumatization however.
Someone experiencing secondary traumatization may compare their experience to the primary trauma sufferer and convince themselves that their feelings don’t have merit or that their needs are unimportant or less important. Secondary traumatization is often experienced by professionals who are in a position to support others who’ve experienced trauma.
What is Secondary Traumatization?
Secondary traumatization is a term used to describe the emotional and psychological effect which can occur when a person is exposed to the trauma experienced by someone else. This can happen to individuals who have witnessed or heard about a traumatic event that has happened to someone close to them or to individuals who work in professions such as first responders, therapists or humanitarian aid workers who are regularly exposed to trauma.
People who may be more likely to experience secondary traumatization include:
- Law Enforcement
- Firefighters
- Paramedics and Other First Responders
- Doctors and Nurses
- Caregivers
- Psychotherapists
- Mental Health Counselors
- Social Workers and Case Workers
How Secondary Trauma Can Impact Your Life
Signs of Secondary Traumatization:
- Feeling overwhelmed by the suffering of others
- Excessive worrying and rumination about clients or patients
- Difficulty concentrating and remembering things related to work with trauma survivors
- Increased irritability or feelings of anger
- Disconnectedness from family, friends and colleagues
- Feeling helplessness, hopelessness or despair
- Avoiding conversations or activities that could be triggering
- Excessive worrying about your own safety or the safety of others
10 Ways to Cope with Secondary Traumatization
- Ground yourself and practice self-care: Take time to do activities that help you feel grounded such as meditation, yoga or taking a walk in nature.
- Connect with supportive loved ones: Reach out to family and friends who can provide emotional support and understanding.
- Utilize relaxation techniques: Be mindful of your own physical and mental needs by incorporating calming activities like deep breathing, stretching and listening to soothing music.
- Set boundaries: Recognize when you are feeling overwhelmed and give yourself permission to take a step back from the situation.
- Seek professional help: Speak with a qualified therapist for help managing your feelings.
- Participate in peer support groups: Meeting with colleagues who are facing similar experiences can provide a sense of solidarity.
- Engage in positive activities: Create space for yourself to enjoy hobbies, read books or watch movies that bring you peace and joy.
- Develop a support system: Choose people in your life who can help you when needed.
- Establish healthy communication: Communicate clearly with those around you to ensure they understand the impact of secondary traumatization.
- Practice self-compassion: Be gentle and understanding with yourself during difficult times.
Help for Secondary Traumatization
At Reconnect, our specialized mental health programs offer intensive trauma and mental health treatment for a wide range of conditions, including virtual PTSD treatment for adults. From major depression to generalized anxiety, PTSD and CPTSD, our behavioral health specialists are dedicated to helping people overcome and live better lives. If you or someone you love is living with a mental health disorder or the symptoms of trauma, we want to help. Give Reconnect a call at (310) 903-8349 today, to find out how we can be of service.
