Understanding Indirect Trauma
Who it might affect
Vicarious trauma is common for those working in policing, but can affect anyone exposed to traumatic stories or images. In policing, it can affect you if your role regularly involves reviewing distressing material, such as child abuse investigations, serious violence cases, domestic abuse work, or reviewing digital evidence and statements.
It can also impact your family members, who may feel the effects indirectly. They might notice changes in your mood, energy, or stress levels, or feel the emotional ripple effects of your work.
Unlike Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), which usually follows direct exposure to threat, vicarious trauma develops gradually, building up from repeated exposure to others’ suffering. It can sneak up on you, sometimes before you even realise it’s happening.
Signs and Symptoms of Vicarious Trauma
Cognitive Changes:
- Increased cynicism or mistrust
- Viewing the world as unsafe
- Preoccupation with case material or thoughts about incidents described
Emotional Changes:
- Emotional numbing
- Irritability
- Persistent sadness, including worry about risks faced by loved ones
- Reduced empathy (as a protective response)
Behavioural Changes:
- Social withdrawal
- Increased alcohol use
- Difficulty switching off after work
- Overprotectiveness toward loved ones
Physical Impact:
- Sleep disturbance
- Chronic fatigue
- Headaches
- Heightened startle response
When to Seek Professional Support
Vicarious trauma can significantly affect your psychological wellbeing, relationships, and occupational functioning. Psychological therapy can help reduce symptoms of vicarious trauma.
Signs that professional support may be helpful include:
- Persistent worldview changes
- Emotional numbing affecting relationships
- Ongoing sleep disturbance
- Increased reliance on alcohol
- Feeling detached from your professional identity
- Feelings of despair
Therapies – how we can help you
