|
|
|
 |
|
|
Lesson 2:
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorders and Secondary Trauma
|
| |
|
|
Secondary Trauma: Individual Indicators of
Distress
There are "individual indicators of
distress" which can tell us all that we are
at increased risk for developing secondary
trauma. Examples of distressing emotions we
might feel include anger, sadness, rage,
depression or anxiety. The list of these
emotional reactions is almost endless. Other
indicators of distress could include
physical complaints (e.g. headaches,
stomachaches, and lethargy), nightmares,
avoidance of certain clients and impaired
work habits (eg. tardiness or missed
appointments).
Individual Indicators of Distress
|
Emotional Indicators
Anger
Sadness
Prolonged grief
Anxiety
Depression
|
Physical Indicators
Headaches
Stomach aches
Lethargy
Constipation
|
|
Personal Indicators
Self-isolation
Cynicism
Mood swings
Irritability with
spouse/family |
Workplace Indicators
Avoidance of certain
clients
Missed appointments
Tardiness
Lack of motivation
|
Think about it
Take a moment to consider some of the
indicators you may currently be experiencing
or have experienced in the past. Jot
down the indicators on a notepad. In
Lesson 4, we will review a variety of ways
to combat Secondary Trauma.
Understanding your own limitations and needs
is key to mediating the effects of this
stress. In the meantime, answering the
questions on the next page will help you
gauge your response to the daily stressors
you face at work.
|
|
|
|
|
|
