Also known as secondary traumatic stress or compassion fatigue it effects professionals who are working with trauma and become empathetically bonded to a client and their cause.
Barristers are among the professionals most likely to experience VT along with psychologists, social workers, child welfare officers, emergency workers, police officers, fire fighters and ministers.
Symptoms of resultant emotional disturbances include ongoing sadness, grief and anxiety as well as irritability, increased aggression, cynicism and mood swings.
Similar to other issues of stress it can lead to behaviour changes such as:
- Sense of isolation
- Inability to separate work from personal life
- Change in personal relationships
- Lack of a sense of purpose.
- Increased alcohol consumption
Developing an adequate self-care strategy is key to preventing or overcoming Vicarious Trauma.
For more information download the information sheets on the right or call 0417 351 677 for Vic Bar’s 24-hour support and counselling service.