A Silent Struggle: Post-traumatic stress in humanitarian work
Humanitarian work is often associated with selfless acts of compassion and aid, providing essential assistance to those in need. However, the reality is that this noble pursuit can take a toll on our mental health and well-being as humanitarian workers. The constant exposure to trauma, violence, and suffering can lead to post-traumatic stress, a condition that refers to the psychological distress we experience when we directly witness or experience traumatic events. Vicarious trauma and secondary traumatic stress, on the other hand, result from indirect exposure to trauma through witnessing or hearing about the experiences of others, leading to similar symptoms as post-traumatic stress.
Post-traumatic stress in humanitarian work is a hidden struggle that often goes unnoticed. As humanitarian we operate in environments ravaged by natural disasters, conflicts, and other crises. Witnessing the devastation and facing the raw pain of the people we serve can have a profound impact on our mental health. We often work under high-pressure situations, facing physical danger and emotional exhaustion, all while trying to alleviate the suffering of others.
Symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can manifest in various ways among humanitarian workers. Flashbacks, nightmares, and intrusive thoughts can transport us back to the traumatic events we have witnessed. We may experience emotional numbness, detachment, or an inability to engage in meaningful relationships due to the psychological distress we’ve endure. Additionally, we may suffer from anxiety, depression, and insomnia, further exacerbating our mental well-being.
Unfortunately, stigma and a lack of understanding surrounding mental health issues within humanitarian organizations contribute to the silence surrounding post-traumatic stress. These beliefs coupled with organizational priorities that focus solely on aiding and supporting those in need sends a message that those we serve matter more than we do and is why so many of us feel guilt and shame when we try to prioritize our mental health needs or practice self-care.
Humanitarian organizations have to cultivate and build greater awareness, training, and support systems to help humanitarian workers cope with the psychological impact of our work. Acknowledging and addressing post-traumatic stress and having the resources we need to heal and thrive will not only improve our mental health, but also enhance the overall effectiveness of our efforts.
