It doesn’t matter if you’ve worked as a specialist family violence practitioner for one month or ten years, supporting victim/survivors of family violence can take a mental, emotional and even physical toll on you. The family violence sector also has a high proportion of victim/survivors who choose to work in this field, which can bring with it additional risks of being triggered and re-traumatised.

This section provides practical strategies for what you and your workplace can do to prevent and manage vicarious trauma and burnout, as well as specific advice for survivors that are also family violence workers. 

Remember: Self care is a priority and necessity – not a luxury – when working with people who have experienced and/or perpetrated family violence.