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5.1 Secondary trauma
Secondary trauma is a specific challenge for helpers : the memories , experiences and ailments of children who have been traumatised by sexual abuse can undermine helpers ’ own mental health . In this sense , the responses to trauma can be described as contagious . This is called secondary trauma . It can develop in helpers who meet traumatised people and who do not process their own feelings and reactions . It is perhaps particularly likely to occur to helpers who work with traumatised children .
Interpreters are also at risk of secondary trauma . Even experienced interpreters can occasionally be emotionally overwhelmed by difficult stories . If you collaborate with interpreters in your capacity as a helper , take care of their well-being too .
5.2 Vicarious traumatisation
As they accumulate experience of human suffering , helpers ’ attitudes may evolve . They may become cynical or pessimistic about the world . This can cause them to undervalue themselves and others , or lose their belief in the possibility of change ; they become indifferent . Over time , some helpers may feel that their personality has changed .
5.3 Compassion fatigue
HELPING THE HELPER
Empathy is vital to the work of all helpers ; but it is not an inexhaustible resource . If helpers constantly give without replenishing their resources and strength , they start to feel empty and tired . They feel exhausted , demotivated , demoralised , and hopeless . They may start to have sleep problems , somatic difficulties , and drink or take drugs . They may even come to feel that their own problems , needs and well-being are less important and do not deserve attention . If they become less available emotionally to their family or friends , their personal relationships may falter , causing loneliness . In the end , they are no longer able to carry out their role as a helper .
5.4 Warning signals that may occur after a long period of being a helper
Here are some warning signals that may occur in helpers over time , which can make them difficult to detect . Experiencing just one of these signals does not indicate that you are at risk of developing compassion fatigue or secondary traumatisation , but a combination of them might .
• Lose their ideals and become cynical .
• Feel unvalued or betrayed by their organisation .
• Lack energy .
• Exaggerate their significance or their importance .