Secondary Trauma stress is the emotional response experienced when an individual hears about a first-hand trauma one has endured. An example of this would be to listen to an individual describe the loss of their loved one and be emotionally impacted by it, according to the National Child Traumatic Stress Network. Vicarious trauma refers to a third level of exposure when an individual is exposed to witnessing or hearing traumatic events that are not directly related to themselves. They, however, experience adverse emotional reactions toward these events. An example would be watching the news or monitoring social media and witnessing someone’s murder, an example cited by the U.S. Office of Victims of Crime.
Response and Coping with Trauma
General responses to trauma are feelings of anger, sadness, grief, depression, social isolation, anxiety, etc. Individuals have trouble concentrating and sleeping and may continually think about or view social media occurrences. These are normal and expected responses, and generally, these symptoms become less intense and subside over time, according to the National Institute of Mental Health.
If these symptoms continue to cause functional impairment and exacerbate, please seek professional mental health care. Otherwise, individuals can exercise coping skills to support their own mental and physical well-being by identifying triggers and prioritizing self-care. Instructors can feel free to share these tools with students experiencing trauma.
Tools for preserving physical health:
- Spend time going outdoors and engaging in exercise or other physical activities
- Remember to eat well and get enough sleep
- Spending quality time with supportive individuals
- Avoiding alcohol and drug consumption
Tools for reinforcing mental health:
- Practicing mindfulness and relaxation techniques
- Setting boundaries and realistic goals
- Recording one’s thoughts and feelings by keeping a journal and compose a gratitude list
- Seeking therapy if professional assistance is required
People experiencing trauma and anxiety may find relief through a wide range of activities. Those who find physical activities to be mentally restorative may benefit from something as simple as going for a walk, or as elaborate as keeping plans for a vacation. Activities like enjoying music, spending time in nature, volunteering and spiritual fellowship can be beneficial. Additional alternatives including art, aromatherapy, practicing hobbies or caring for pets can also provide emotional and psychological comforts.
Human relationships are also important. Finding time for family, calling friends, and even keeping plans for dates can help people experiencing emotional stress. At work and school, it’s good to remember to take regular breaks and engage in teamwork and playful interactions with colleagues.
The events occurring in Iran are not only troubling to the Iranian-American population. We as a community are all interconnected through basic human rights and lived experiences, and current events anywhere in the world can impact individuals differently. It is critical that we recognize the power of “Holistic Healing,” which is to transform and nurture the community by creating connection and support.
Please extend to yourself and your Iranian-American colleagues, peers, and students compassion, grace, and space to process the possible impacts of the recent events.
Recommended resources:
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Crisis counselors are available at all times, and free of charge, to assist anyone who is in the midst of a suicidal crisis or undergoing emotional distress. Counselors can be contacting by calling or texting 988, or via online live chat at 988lifeline.org.
The NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) HelpLine is accessible Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. ET by calling 800-950-NAMI (6264), texting “HelpLine” to 62640 or sending an email to helpline@nami.org.
Veterans Crisis Line: Veterans, as well as people worried for a veteran in their lives, can seek assistance at any time of the day. Services are available by telephone at 800-273-8255 (callers should press “1” after dialing), by text at 838255, or by using the online live chat.
The Jed Foundation, focused on emotional health and suicide prevention for teenagers and young adults, offers a relevant guide, “How to cope with traumatic events.”
Related:
5 ways to prioritize mental health for international and study abroad students
Dr. Golnaz Agahi is associate professor of social work at University of Massachusetts Global and is a licensed clinical social worker in California. As a clinician, she has worked in the areas of crisis intervention, trauma and co-occurring substance abuse and mental health problems. Agahi has also presented on subjects including suicide prevention, alcohol and drug abuse prevention and treatment, and stress management at professional conferences.
Dr. Melani Natneil is assistant professor of psychology at University of Massachusetts Global and a licensed marriage and family therapist in California. She specializes in therapy for patients living with intergenerational and interracial trauma. In her academic role, Natneil is interested in how social factors including gender, ethnicity, culture and religiosity can shape interactions between therapists and patients.
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