Looking after yourself
Supporting others can take a lot of emotional energy. Taking small steps to look after yourself can make a difference.
You might find you experience something called vicarious trauma. This can happen when you are regularly exposed to other people’s distressing experiences through your work.
Over time, this can start to affect how you feel. You might notice that it’s harder to switch off, or that certain thoughts, images or emotions stay with you after work.
These responses are understandable. They are a natural reaction to supporting others through difficult situations. If you notice these feelings, it may help to talk to someone you trust or seek additional support.
You might find it helpful to:
- talk to a colleague, supervisor or someone you trust about your experience
- take time to rest and recover, especially after intense periods of work
- keep to routines where possible
- use simple grounding or breathing techniques if you feel overwhelmed.
If things feel difficult or are not improving, it is important to seek support.
Many organisations offer support for staff wellbeing.
You may be able to access:
- occupational health services
- an employee assistance programme (EAP)
- supervision or reflective practice sessions.
If you are unsure what is available, you can speak to your line manager or human resources team.
If you would prefer to access support outside of your workplace, there are other options available.
You can:
- contact your GP
- self-refer to NHS psychological therapy services in your local area
- access information about coping after a traumatic event through NHS resources
- access independent helplines or support organisations.
If you are supporting people affected by a terrorist incident, you may be dealing with difficult and distressing situations as part of your role. This could be as a first responder, healthcare professional, caseworker, volunteer, or another support role.
It is common for this work to affect how you feel, both at the time and afterwards. You might notice changes in your mood, sleep, or energy levels, or find it harder to switch off from what you have seen or heard.
This page brings together some of the support that may be available to you. You can also contact the Support Hub for Victims and Survivors of Terrorism if you are unsure where to go next.
If you are supporting someone who has been affected by a terrorist incident, we can help you understand what support is available and how to access it. You can contact us for advice or make a referral through the website, and we will help guide you to the right support.