Vicarious Trauma in Corrections

Unlike PTSD, which results from directly experiencing trauma, vicarious trauma stems from repeated exposure to others' suffering.  Correctional staff, including officers, counselors, and other personnel working in prisons and corrections, are at high risk due to their constant exposure to violence, abuse, and emotional distress. 

The impact of vicarious trauma is often subtle but can be cumulative over time. Symptoms may include emotional numbness, anxiety, irritability, depression, nightmares, changes in worldview, difficulty maintaining relationships, and a reduced ability to empathize. In correctional settings, this can negatively affect staff performance and well-being. Additionally, peer debriefs, while intended to offer support, can sometimes exacerbate trauma, leading to emotional exhaustion if boundaries are not established. 

3 General Coping Strategies for Vicarious Trauma 

1. Develop Healthy Boundaries 

Maintaining healthy emotional boundaries is essential for those at risk of vicarious trauma. Correctional staff and peers involved in debriefs must set limits on the type and depth of conversations they engage in. While sharing experiences can be therapeutic, it is important to avoid excessive venting or the reliving of trauma during peer interactions. Establishing clear boundaries about what is discussed and for how long can help prevent overwhelming emotional exposure. 

Tip: If a peer's account is particularly distressing, gently steer the conversation toward self-care or a more neutral topic. Avoid engaging in discussions that rehash traumatic details unless it is part of a professional debriefing session led by a trained counselor. 

2. Engage in Regular Self-Care 

Self-care is an essential strategy for mitigating the effects of vicarious trauma. Correctional staff and peers alike should establish consistent self-care routines to ensure their mental, emotional, and physical well-being. This can include activities like exercise, hobbies, relaxation techniques, and spending time with loved ones,  

Tip: Incorporate mindfulness or meditation practices into your daily routine. Simple breathing exercises or progressive muscle relaxation can help reduce stress and re-center the mind.  If possible, schedule regular breaks throughout the workday or on days off to step away from high-stress situations. 

3. Seek Professional Support 

Given the high levels of emotional exposure, seeking professional support is an effective way to address the symptoms of vicarious trauma. Therapy, particularly with a counselor trained in trauma-informed care, can help individuals process their experiences and develop strategies for emotional resilience. Peer support groups or professional debriefing sessions, when led by trained facilitators, can also offer valuable space for processing. 

Tip: If you are feeling emotionally overwhelmed or noticing persistent symptoms of vicarious trauma, consider seeking therapy or counseling. Many Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) offer confidential counseling services to help staff manage stress and trauma. 

Points of Consideration for Organizations When Dealing with Vicarious Trauma 

• Recognize the Signs Early: Vicarious trauma can manifest subtly so early intervention is key. Staff should be encouraged to monitor their emotional well-being and seek help before symptoms become overwhelming. 

• Foster a Supportive Work Environment: A workplace culture that prioritizes mental health can significantly reduce the risk of vicarious trauma. Regular check-ins, training on emotional resilience, and access to support resources should be integral to the institution’s framework. 

• Promote Healthy Peer Support: While peer debriefs can be helpful, they must be carefully managed to avoid reinforcing trauma. Institutions should provide guidelines on how to conduct these sessions, ensuring they are structured and led by trained professionals when necessary. 

• Encourage Open Communication: Creating an environment where staff feel comfortable discussing their struggles and with vicarious trauma can reduce isolation and promote healing. Regular conversations around mental health can lessen stigma and encourage individuals to seek help when needed. 

Vicarious trauma is an inevitable part of working in high-stress professions making it crucial to understand its impact and ways to cope with it. Whether through setting boundaries, engaging in self-care, or seeking professional support, staff can reduce the effects of secondary trauma. Fostering a supportive work culture and prioritizing mental health helps correctional staff protect their well-being while continuing to provide essential care and support to others.