In a world that is more digitally connected than ever, we have the ability to learn about the experiences of people we may never cross paths with in real life and gain a deeper understanding of the challenges they face. This connection can be a beautiful thing as it encourages us to have more empathy, brings awareness to important conversations, and helps us feel less alone. At the same time, it can sometimes expose us to an overwhelming amount of upsetting information. This flood of traumatic content can lead to vicarious trauma, a topic that deserves our attention, especially given the current events and distressing images that are circulating online. Learning about vicarious trauma and its effects can help us protect our mental health while also staying informed.
Vicarious trauma is trauma that we experience after being exposed to another person’s traumatic experiences. It often affects those who work in helping professions, but it can happen to anyone who witnesses or hears about traumatic events, particularly if they are exposed to these events repetitively.
The past few years have presented us with a relentless stream of global challenges and crises. From the COVID-19 pandemic to natural disasters and political unrest, people are seeing traumatizing images and stories on their social media feeds with alarming regularity. It’s crucial to acknowledge the toll this constant exposure can take on our mental and emotional well-being.
Raising Awareness About Vicarious Trauma
Once we recognize vicarious trauma, we can address it and take proactive steps to care for our well-being. Raising awareness about vicarious trauma can help our community through…
Normalization: Acknowledging vicarious trauma helps remove the stigma associated with it. Many people feel guilty or “weak” for being affected by the suffering of others. By normalizing these feelings, we can reduce the shame that often accompanies them.
Early Intervention: Identifying the signs of vicarious trauma allows individuals to seek support at an early stage. This can help prevent vicarious trauma from escalating into a more severe mental health issue or exacerbating feelings of anxiety or depression.
Self-Care: Increasing awareness about vicarious trauma emphasizes the importance of self-care and emotional boundaries, helping people build resilience and cope better with the emotional toll of vicarious trauma.
Tips for Coping with or Preventing Vicarious Trauma
Limit Exposure
Set boundaries for the amount of distressing content you consume if you find that it is affecting you. Consider taking regular breaks from social media or news updates to protect your mental well-being.
Remember that it is natural to be affected by the suffering of others; this is nothing to be ashamed of. Be gentle with yourself and acknowledge your feelings without judgment.
Seek Support
Talk to friends, family, or a mental health professional about your experiences. Sharing your feelings can help alleviate the emotional burden. By opening up these difficult conversations, you might even discover that your loved ones are going through the same thing.
Engage in mindfulness practices or relaxation techniques to manage stress and anxiety. Deep breathing exercises, meditation, and yoga can be helpful in grounding yourself.
Channel Empathy into Action
If you’re deeply affected by a cause or issue, consider channeling your empathy into positive action. Volunteering, supporting a charity, or participating in advocacy can help you feel more empowered.
Digital Detox
Periodically disconnect from your devices and screens. Engage in offline activities that bring you joy, like hobbies, exercise, or spending time with loved ones.
Check In with Yourself
Monitor your well-being and notice any changes in your behaviour. Pay attention to changes in your mood, ability to concentrate, and sleep patterns, as these are some of the indicators of vicarious trauma.
By raising awareness about vicarious trauma and practicing self-care strategies, we can cope with the distressing events we encounter. Our compassion is a powerful tool for change, and we must also take care of ourselves as we continue to support those in need.
If you or someone you know is dealing with vicarious trauma or any other mental health challenge, we want to remind you that it’s okay to ask for support. Explore Stigma-Free Society’s Help & Community Resources, which offer a range of mental health resources for individuals of all ages who live in Canada. Our no-cost Student Mental Health Toolkit also offers a variety of Lesson Plans and Downloadable Resources to support educators and parents/guardians in teaching students about these important topics.
By: Monique Zizzo
