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In my experience, trauma is something that other people experience; none of us will think that it may happen to us.

What happens if we put ourselves in a situation where there is a genuine possibility we may become traumatised or even re-traumatised?

For example, recently, I received a summons for jury service. In the UK, attendance is mandatory, with a fine of £1000,00 and a criminal record for non-attendance.

You can, in some instances, be excused from jury service. However, the process can be long-winded, and you may have to justify your reasons to the judge, which many may find daunting.

The court staff were very receptive to any potential juror who may find court service daunting or need help to listen to the evidence.
It did strike me that those who serve on a jury may become vicariously traumatised by the evidence or the testimony of the victims.

Vicarious trauma refers to the emotional and psychological impact experienced by individuals who are indirect...