Mental health nurses working with service users who have experienced trauma can suffer vicariously as a result. Victoria Clarke explores the issues and looks at suitable responses

This article considers what ‘trauma’ is, establishes its relevance within a mental health nursing context and discusses possible implications for both practice and education settings. As a mental health nurse I have been aware of issues relating to trauma, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and vicarious trauma for several years. It is an area in which I am keen to develop my knowledge and understanding, particularly in relation to student mental health nurses while they are undergoing their pre-registration education. This article seeks to raise awareness of issues around vicarious trauma.