Vicarious (or Second Hand) trauma is a process of change resulting from empathetic engagement with trauma survivors. Anyone who engages empathetically with survivors of traumatic incidents, torture, and material relating to their trauma, is potentially affected, including health professionals, volunteers and researchers.
Please be aware of the signs and keep an eye on your fellow volunteers, if they are showing any signs. Second Hand trauma is very real! And keep in mind: You can’t help others, if you are too tired or too traumatized to function properly.
Signs and strategies for coping with Second Hand Trauma