What is Secondary Traumatic Stress?

Secondary traumatic stress (STS) is an increasingly recognized phenomenon that affects individuals who are indirectly exposed to trauma. While it is often associated with healthcare professionals, therapists, and first responders, it can impact anyone who is regularly exposed to the trauma of others. This blog post will delve into the definition, symptoms, causes, and treatments of secondary traumatic stress, providing a comprehensive understanding of this condition.

Understanding Secondary Traumatic Stress

Secondary traumatic stress (STS), also known as vicarious trauma, compassion fatigue, or secondary victimization, occurs when an individual experiences symptoms similar to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after being indirectly exposed to another person’s traumatic experiences. This condition can develop in professionals who work closely with trauma survivors, including therapists, social workers, medical staff, and emergency responders. It can also affect family members, friends, and colleagues of those who have experienced trauma. 

STS can develop when individuals internalize the distress and trauma of those they are helping or supporting. The process involves emotional contagion, where one person’s emotional state triggers similar emotions in another person. Over time, this repeated exposure to others’ trauma can overwhelm an individual’s ability to cope, leading to symptoms that closely resemble those of PTSD.

Symptoms of Secondary Traumatic Stress

The symptoms of STS can mirror those of PTSD and may include:

1. Intrusive Thoughts: Repeated and unwanted thoughts about the traumatic events that the individual has heard about or witnessed indirectly. These thoughts can intrude upon daily activities and cause significant distress.
2. Emotional Distress: Feelings of sadness, anxiety, or irritability that can be overwhelming. Individuals may feel a persistent sense of hopelessness or helplessness.
3. Avoidance: Avoiding situations, places, or people that remind one of the traumatic events. This can lead to isolation and a reduced ability to engage in everyday activities.
4. Physical Symptoms: Headaches, fatigue, and other stress-related physical issues. Chronic stress can manifest in various physical ailments, including gastrointestinal problems and cardiovascular issues.
5. Changes in Behavior: Withdrawal from social interactions, changes in appetite, and difficulty sleeping. Behavioral changes can include increased substance use as a coping mechanism.
6. Hypervigilance: Increased alertness and sensitivity to potential threats. Individuals may feel constantly on edge, expecting danger at any moment.

These symptoms can have a significant impact on an individual’s personal and professional life, leading to burnout and a decreased ability to perform daily tasks effectively. The National Child Traumatic Stress Network reports that professionals exposed to trauma through their work are at a higher risk of developing STS, with up to 50% experiencing significant symptoms at some point in their careers .

Understanding and recognizing these symptoms is crucial for early intervention and effective management of secondary traumatic stress. By addressing STS promptly, individuals can reduce its impact and continue to provide compassionate care without compromising their own well-being.

Causes of Secondary Traumatic Stress

STS is caused by repeated exposure to the trauma of others. This exposure can occur through:

1. Professional Exposure: Healthcare providers, therapists, and social workers often hear detailed accounts of traumatic experiences, which can take an emotional toll over time.
2. Personal Relationships: Friends and family members of trauma survivors can also develop STS from supporting their loved ones through their healing journey.
3. Media Exposure: Continuous exposure to traumatic events through news and social media can also contribute to STS, particularly during times of widespread crises such as natural disasters or acts of violence.

The cumulative effect of these exposures can lead to a heightened risk of developing STS, particularly if the individual does not have adequate coping mechanisms or support systems in place.

Risk Factors for Developing Secondary Traumatic Stress

While anyone can develop STS, certain factors can increase the risk, including:

1. High Empathy Levels: Individuals who are naturally empathetic may be more susceptible to STS because they internalize the pain and suffering of others more deeply.
2. Personal Trauma History: Those with a personal history of trauma may be more vulnerable to STS due to their previous experiences.
3. Lack of Support: A lack of professional and personal support can make it more difficult to cope with the emotional demands of being exposed to others’ trauma.
4. Work Environment: High-stress work environments with limited resources and support for employees can increase the likelihood of developing STS.

The Impact of Secondary Traumatic Stress

The impact of STS can be profound, affecting various aspects of an individual’s life:

1. Professional Performance: Individuals may experience decreased job satisfaction, increased absenteeism, and a higher likelihood of making errors at work.
2. Personal Relationships: STS can strain relationships with family and friends, leading to social isolation and conflicts.
3. Physical Health: Chronic stress associated with STS can lead to physical health problems such as cardiovascular issues, weakened immune function, and chronic pain.
4. Mental Health: Without intervention, STS can lead to more severe mental health issues, including depression, anxiety disorders, and PTSD.

Treatment and Prevention of Secondary Traumatic Stress

Addressing secondary traumatic stress requires a multi-faceted approach that includes self-care, professional support, and organizational strategies. By implementing these measures, individuals and organizations can mitigate the impact of STS and promote a healthier, more resilient environment for those affected by trauma exposure.

1. Self-Care Strategies

Self-care is a crucial component in managing and preventing STS. Individuals can adopt several practices to enhance their well-being and build resilience against the effects of secondary trauma.

• Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Practices such as meditation, yoga, and deep-breathing exercises can help individuals manage stress and maintain emotional balance. These techniques encourage present-moment awareness and relaxation, reducing the physiological effects of stress. Research shows that mindfulness practices can significantly lower stress levels and improve emotional regulation.
• Physical Activity: Regular exercise can reduce stress levels and improve overall well-being. Physical activity stimulates the production of endorphins, which are natural mood lifters. It also helps to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression, providing a healthy outlet for stress management.
• Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Maintaining a balanced diet, getting adequate sleep, and avoiding substances like alcohol and drugs are crucial for mental and physical health. Good nutrition supports brain function, while sufficient rest allows the body to recover from daily stressors. Avoiding substances that can alter mood or sleep patterns helps maintain stability and resilience.
• Setting Boundaries: Learning to set emotional boundaries and knowing when to step back from stressful situations can help prevent burnout. Boundaries ensure that individuals do not overextend themselves emotionally, allowing them to maintain their capacity to care for others while protecting their well-being.

2. Professional Support

Professional support is essential for those experiencing STS. Access to mental health services and peer support can provide the necessary tools and resources to manage the condition effectively.

• Therapy: Speaking with a mental health professional can provide individuals with coping strategies and emotional support. Therapists can offer personalized interventions, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which has been proven effective in treating stress-related conditions.
• Support Groups: Joining a support group of individuals who have similar experiences can provide a sense of community and understanding. Support groups offer a safe space to share feelings and strategies, reducing feelings of isolation and providing collective strength.
• Professional Training: Training programs for professionals can teach techniques for managing stress and preventing STS. These programs often include education on recognizing the signs of STS, implementing self-care strategies, and fostering resilience in high-stress environments.

3. Organizational Strategies

Organizations play a vital role in preventing and managing STS among their staff. By creating supportive environments and offering resources, they can help mitigate the impact of secondary trauma.

• Workplace Support Programs: Employers can offer programs that provide mental health support, such as Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs). These programs typically offer confidential counseling services, stress management resources, and crisis intervention support, helping employees navigate their challenges.
• Regular Supervision and Debriefing: Regular check-ins with supervisors and debriefing sessions can help professionals process their experiences and emotions. These meetings provide opportunities to discuss difficult cases, receive feedback, and access emotional support, reducing the risk of burnout.
• Creating a Supportive Work Environment: Encouraging a culture of support and open communication within the workplace can help individuals feel more supported and less isolated. Organizations can promote well-being by fostering a positive work environment, offering professional development opportunities, and ensuring that staff have access to necessary resources and support.

Profound Treatment Can Help

If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of secondary traumatic stress, reach out to Profound Treatment Center for support. Our holistic approach to treatment ensures that every aspect of your well-being is addressed, providing you with the tools and resources needed to heal and thrive. We specialize in dual diagnosis treatment and offer various therapeutic modalities for those struggling with trauma and related conditions.

For more information on how we can help, please contact us today. Together, we can navigate the path to recovery and resilience. Call 310-929-9546.

References

Vukčević Marković, M., & Živanović, M. (2022). Coping with Secondary Traumatic Stress. International journal of environmental research and public health, 19(19), 12881. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191912881

The National Child Traumatic Stress Network. (n.d.). Secondary traumatic stress. Retrieved from https://www.nctsn.org/sites/default/files/resources/fact-sheet/cac_understanding_secondary_traumatic_stress_resources_network.pdf