Spirituality and Vicarious Trauma Among Trauma Clinicians: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Background: There has been a lack of research so far on spirituality and trauma. There has been some indication that religion and spirituality are resources in protection against burnout. Objective: The aim of this study was to understand the phenomenon of spirituality in the context of vicarious trauma among trauma clinicians. Methods: This was a qualitative study based on hermeneutic phenomenological methodology. Individual interviews were conducted with 36 physicians, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants on the relationship between their spirituality and trauma work. Results: Participants were recruited from a large Midwest metropolitan Level I trauma center and attendees at the 2018 Eastern Association for the Surgery of Trauma annual conference. Four patterns emerged from the interviews that transcended religious or spiritual affiliation and medical specialty. These included (1) the world of trauma; (2) religious or spiritual beliefs guiding their work; (3) the need for support systems; and (4) the importance of coping mechanisms. Conclusion: Religion or spirituality plays a role in underlying meaning making and, in the moment, coping for trauma professionals.

Vicarious trauma

“…Debriefing creates designated time to process your experiences, make meaning from those experiences, and reconnect with your purpose as a healthcare provider. 11 Collegial support through debriefing is paramount in preventing professional stress that may lead to vicarious trauma and/or burnout. Having an environment in the workplace where traumatic experiences can be shared and heard can help to combat the cumulative negative effects of trauma exposure.…”

“…Having an environment in the workplace where traumatic experiences can be shared and heard can help to combat the cumulative negative effects of trauma exposure. 11 Second, basic self-care practices, including regular exercise, a healthy diet, and restful sleep, are critical to overall wellbeing. Making time for vacations and hobbies also is part of caring for self.…”

The Relationship of Art Therapy to Spirituality

“…(iv) Art and Spirituality Have Similar Functions in the Psyche and Need Each Other Damasio (2010, as cited in Colette, 2019) said that the arts survive thanks to their therapeutic value, which is a compensation against human disasters and suffering. Similarly, many studies are available that suggest spirituality to be associated with positive coping and healthy development (Biancalani et al, 2022;Can & Duran, 2021;Craig et al, 2022;Corrigan et al, 2003;Richardson et al, 2022;Muehlhausen, 2021). In one example where art collaborates with spirituality in healing the human soul, Kearney and Weininger (2012) recommended art therapy as an excellent approach to bring awareness to the soul in the relationship between fear of death and suffering.…”