Elkhart Culture Series: Thought Leadership Conference

This session is for anyone who starts each day with the intention to make the world a better place. It's for leaders who, through their work, witness the crisis or suffering of others.  Secondary trauma, sometimes referred to as compassion fatigue, is best defined as the cumulative physical, emotional, or psychological response that occurs due to exposure to others’ traumatic events. These interactions, combined with the stress of everyday life, often lead to burnout, the breakdown of a positive workplace culture, and a decrease in the ability to build or sustain healthy relationships.  Participants will learn about the impact of secondary trauma, begin to identify the personal signs of vicarious trauma, and gain techniques for establishing a system of self-care while still working to make a difference in the lives of others.  

Session Goals
1) To understand the impact of secondary trauma on individuals, organizations, and communities
2) To recognize the signs of secondary trauma
3) To establish a self-care process to reduce the effects of secondary trauma

Participants will gain self-reflection skills to guide them in their capacity to do meaningful work and to continue serving in leadership roles within their community.