English Mental health and gender-based violence English version | Page 151

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PART III : THEORY
When working with survivors of trauma and GBV , it is important to recognize the possible effects of vicarious traumatisation ( sometimes called secondary trauma or compassion fatigue ). The effects of vicarious trauma may be easier to detect in others than in yourself . If you are working in a team and detect these signals in your co-worker , sit down and talk about what can be done to relieve the situation . Here are the warning signs of secondary traumatisation :
• Wounded ideals .
• Cynicism .
• Feeling unappreciated or betrayed by the organization .
• Loss of spirit .
• Grandiose beliefs about his or her importance and role .
• Heroic but reckless behaviour .
• Neglecting one ’ s own safety and physical needs ( not taking breaks , not sleeping , etc .).
• Mistrusting colleagues and supervisors .
• Antisocial behaviour .
• Excessive tiredness .
• Inability to concentrate .
• Symptoms of illness or disease .
• Sleep difficulties .
• Inefficiency .
• Excessive use of substances , such as alcohol , tobacco or drugs .
Some simple advice on how to prepare and handle these warning signs :
• Acknowledge that your reactions are normal and unavoidable .
• Consciously try to relax .
• Talk to someone with whom you feel at ease .
• Express your feelings in ways other than talking : draw , paint , play music , pray .
• Listen to what people close to you say and think about what they tell you .
• Take care of yourself .
• Do exercise or yoga .
• Take a walk in the countryside .
• Do grounding exercises .
• See BASIC-Ph coping skills ( page 130 ).