Vicarious trauma becomes an occupational hazard during COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic is leaving health professionals feeling fearful and vulnerable and exposing them to trauma, according to Ellen Fink-Samnick, MSW. In a HealthLeaders Media interview, she described vicarious or secondary trauma as the impact traumatic experiences have on professionals working with traumatized patients or clients. Fink-Samnick recommended some simple steps people can take to manage the vicarious trauma they experience in the workplace: limit social media, stop and debrief after stressful events, eat well and get plenty of sleep. (HealthLeaders Media story, 7/10/20)