Title: Blog Therapy, Therapy, Therapy Blog, Blogging Therapy, Therapy,..
Headings: Vicarious Trauma
Vicarious Trauma
Understanding Vicarious Trauma
Symptoms of Vicarious Trauma
Vicarious Trauma and Mental Health
Self-Care Practices to Reduce Risk of Vicarious Trauma
References:
Maryanne
The GoodTherapy.org Team
MissBea
Noah

Content: Because symptoms can become debilitating if left untreated, it is recommended that helping professionals at risk of developing vicarious trauma seek the help of a mental health professional before symptoms become serious. Vicarious Trauma and Mental Health
Vicarious trauma can have a significant impact on a person’s mental health. Helpers and others affected by vicarious trauma may notice emotional issues, such as feelings of anxiety, anger, and/or sadness related to hearing accounts of traumatic experiences. According to revised diagnostic criteria for posttraumatic stress in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (which was expanded to include “repeated exposure to aversive details” of a traumatic event), some of those who experience vicarious trauma may also be diagnosed with PTSD. A person with PTSD may be affected by intrusive thoughts about trauma, avoid things that cause memories of a traumatic experience, and have increased physiological arousal/reactivity. Therapy is generally recommended to those affected by vicarious trauma. A therapist can provide time and space for individuals to discuss how experiences of trauma survivors have had an impact. In therapy, helping professionals can also learn and build upon coping skills to address symptoms of vicarious trauma and develop self-care practices to help prevent future recurrences. Self-Care Practices to Reduce Risk of Vicarious Trauma
People in helping professions can take specific steps to reduce the risk of vicarious traumatization. Also, it is widely considered to be essential for those who are frequently exposed to traumatic material to receive appropriate training and supervision.