The simple truth is that whether we show it or not, the idea that we can daily hear and see other people's suffering and trauma without being affected by this, is as impossible as immersing ourselves in water and not getting wet.
Helping roles range widely, from health-care professionals to paramedics, from home carers to the police. We will call everyone helpers.
VT is one of a number of ways in which helpers can be impacted by their work. Although it is becoming more widely recognised, VT is still frequently missed or mistaken for other things, particularly Burnout.
VT awareness and recognition by helpers and by helping organisations, benefits everyone... Helpers, the people they help, the helping organisations they work for and their families and friends, by:
Neuroscience is educating us that self-care is not only important, but absolutely essential for helpers and for helping organisations to prioritise. But typically, self-care is last on a helper's 'to-do' list, who often just keeps going until they keel over.
The COVID-19 pandemic has especially impacted people in helping & support roles, due to increased risks, anxieties and work stresses. So, the need for VT awareness and robust self-care - both in and out of work - is more important now than ever.
You cannot pour from an empty cup!
This short Video provides a brief introduction to Vicarious Traumatisation:
Our hope is that this information will strengthen and support your own well-being.
For further information, please contact us via the Contact page.
