Secondary Trauma Part 3: Reaching Out for Help
Welcome to the third installment of our series on secondary trauma and the well-being of therapists. In the previous parts, we discussed what secondary trauma is and explored coping skills and prevention strategies. In this crucial third part, we will focus on recognizing the signs that it is time for therapists to reach out for professional help, what to look for in a therapist, how therapy can help, and various ways to address secondary trauma in therapy. As dedicated caregivers, it is vital that we acknowledge when our own emotional well-being is at risk and take proactive steps to seek the support we need.
Recognizing the Signs
1. Persistent Emotional Distress: If you find yourself experiencing persistent emotional distress that interferes with your daily life, it's time to seek help. This could manifest as constant anxiety, overwhelming sadness, or persistent irritability. When these emotions become unmanageable and persistent, professional assistance is crucial.
2. Physical Symptoms: Chronic physical symptoms such as headaches, stomachaches, or sleep disturbances may be physical manifestations of emotional distress. If these symptoms persist despite attempts to address them, it's a sign that deeper emotional issues may need attention.
3. Isolation: Feeling increasingly isolated or withdrawing from friends and loved ones can be indicative of emotional struggles. If you find yourself avoiding social interactions or becoming more isolated, it's a signal to seek support.
4. Substance Abuse: Turning to alcohol, drugs, or other substances as a way to cope with stress or emotions is a red flag. Substance abuse can quickly become a harmful coping mechanism, and seeking help is essential to address this issue.
5. Decreased Work Performance: A significant decline in your ability to perform your job effectively can be a clear indicator that you need assistance. If you notice that your work quality is suffering due to emotional challenges, consider professional intervention.
6. Intrusive Thoughts or Flashbacks: Experiencing intrusive thoughts or flashbacks related to your work can be distressing. These can be signs of secondary trauma or even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and professional help is crucial to address these symptoms.
7. Burnout: Feelings of burnout, characterized by emotional exhaustion, reduced empathy, and a sense of ineffectiveness, should not be ignored. Burnout can significantly impact your well-being and the quality of care you provide to clients.
8. Conflict in Relationships: If you notice increased conflict in your personal relationships, including difficulty in communicating or connecting with loved ones, it may be time to seek professional guidance.
9. Loss of Interest: A loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed is a common sign of emotional distress. If you no longer find pleasure in hobbies or interests outside of work, it's a sign to reach out for help.
10. Self-Harming Thoughts or Behaviors: Any thoughts or behaviors related to self-harm or suicide must be taken seriously. Reach out to a mental health professional immediately if you experience these.
What to Look for in a Therapist
When seeking therapy to address secondary trauma, it's crucial to find a therapist who is the right fit for you. Here are some key considerations:
Specialization: Look for therapists who have experience or expertise in trauma, burnout, or secondary trauma.
Credentials: Ensure that the therapist is licensed and accredited by relevant professional organizations.
Compatibility: Seek a therapist with whom you feel comfortable and can establish a trusting therapeutic relationship.
Approach: Understand the therapist's approach to treatment (e.g., cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based therapy) and whether it aligns with your preferences.
Availability: Consider the therapist's availability and whether their schedule matches yours.
Cost and Insurance: Determine the cost of therapy sessions and whether the therapist accepts your insurance or offers sliding scale fees.
How Therapy Can Help
Therapy can be a highly effective way to address secondary trauma, if you are a fellow therapist reading this… you might be saying “duh”. What about those helpers that aren’t used to therapy or have never been? This section is for you. Here's how therapy can help with your secondary trauma symptoms and why it’s worth it:
Validation: Therapists provide a safe space to express your feelings and experiences, validating your emotions and helping you feel understood.
Coping Strategies: Therapists teach coping strategies to manage stress, anxiety, and emotional distress.
Processing Trauma: Therapy can help you process and make sense of traumatic experiences, reducing their emotional impact.
Skill Building: Therapists can teach you resilience-building skills, improving your ability to handle challenging situations.
Various Ways to Address Secondary Trauma in Therapy
Therapists employ various techniques to address secondary trauma, including:
Trauma-Informed Therapy: Therapists use trauma-informed approaches to understand how trauma may affect your mental and emotional well-being.
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT helps you identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors related to secondary trauma.
Mindfulness and Relaxation: Mindfulness practices and relaxation techniques can help you stay present and manage stress.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): EMDR is effective for processing trauma and reducing its emotional impact.
Support Groups: Therapists may recommend support groups for therapists experiencing secondary trauma, providing a sense of community and understanding.
Recognizing the signs that you need professional help for is a crucial step toward healing and well-being. When seeking therapy, consider what to look for in a therapist, the ways therapy can help, and the various techniques therapists use to address secondary trauma. Remember, reaching out for support is an act of strength and self-care, allowing you to continue providing compassionate care to others while prioritizing your own emotional health.