Surreal illustration symbolizing the role of interpreters bridging trauma and support.

The Silent Toll: Understanding Secondary Trauma in Refugee Interpreters

Mira Elwood in Health & Wellness December 2025 • 4 min read.

"How Interpreters Can Experience Secondary Trauma While Helping Refugees, and What Can Be Done"

In the midst of global crises, interpreters serve as crucial bridges, connecting refugees with essential services. However, their role often places them in the direct line of traumatic narratives, potentially leading to secondary trauma—a condition where individuals develop symptoms similar to those experienced by primary trauma survivors. This phenomenon, while gaining recognition, remains largely unaddressed in the context of refugee support.

A recent study published in Psychopathology sheds light on the prevalence and risk factors associated with secondary traumatization among interpreters working with refugees. The research highlights the emotional toll these professionals face and identifies key resilience factors that can mitigate the impact of vicarious trauma. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for creating supportive environments and ensuring the well-being of those who serve as vital links for vulnerable populations.

This article delves into the findings of the Psychopathology study, exploring the rates of primary and secondary trauma among interpreters, the symptoms they experience, and the resilience factors that offer protection. It also examines the implications of these findings for the selection, training, and supervision of interpreters, aiming to foster a more sustainable and compassionate approach to refugee assistance.

What is Secondary Traumatization and Why Are Interpreters Vulnerable?

Surreal illustration symbolizing the role of interpreters bridging trauma and support.

Secondary traumatization, also known as vicarious trauma, occurs when an individual is exposed to the traumatic experiences of others, leading to the development of trauma-related symptoms. Unlike primary trauma, which results from direct exposure to a traumatic event, secondary trauma arises from witnessing or hearing about the suffering of others. This can manifest as:

For interpreters working with refugees, the risk of secondary traumatization is particularly high. They are repeatedly exposed to stories of persecution, violence, and loss, often translating these narratives in vivid detail. This constant immersion in trauma can lead to a range of emotional and psychological challenges:

Intrusive thoughts and images
Emotional distress and numbness
Difficulty sleeping and concentrating
Increased anxiety and hyperarousal
Changes in worldview and beliefs
Burnout and compassion fatigue

The Psychopathology study underscores the significant impact of this vicarious exposure, revealing that a substantial proportion of interpreters experience symptoms of secondary trauma. This highlights the urgent need for greater awareness and support for these essential workers.

Moving Forward: Supporting the Well-being of Refugee Interpreters

The findings of the Psychopathology study offer valuable insights for creating more supportive and sustainable practices in refugee assistance. By acknowledging the risk of secondary traumatization and implementing targeted interventions, we can better protect the well-being of interpreters and ensure their continued ability to provide vital services to vulnerable populations.

About this Article -

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This article is based on research published under:

DOI-LINK: 10.1159/000477670, Alternate LINK

Title: Prevalence Of And Risk Factors For Secondary Traumatization In Interpreters For Refugees: A Cross-Sectional Study

Subject: Psychiatry and Mental health

Journal: Psychopathology

Publisher: S. Karger AG

Authors: David Kindermann, Carolin Schmid, Cassandra Derreza-Greeven, Daniel Huhn, Rupert Maria Kohl, Florian Junne, Maritta Schleyer, Judith K. Daniels, Beate Ditzen, Wolfgang Herzog, Christoph Nikendei

Published: 2017-01-01

Everything You Need To Know

What is Secondary Traumatization, and why are interpreters at risk?

Secondary traumatization, also known as vicarious trauma, is when someone develops trauma-related symptoms after being exposed to the traumatic experiences of others. Interpreters are vulnerable because they are repeatedly exposed to narratives of persecution, violence, and loss from refugees. This constant exposure can lead to emotional and psychological challenges, including intrusive thoughts, emotional distress, and difficulty sleeping.

Why are interpreters so important, and how does their role impact them?

Interpreters are vital because they bridge the communication gap between refugees and essential services. Without interpreters, refugees would struggle to access critical support. Unfortunately, the role of interpreters also places them in the direct line of traumatic narratives. This exposure can lead to Secondary Traumatization, impacting the mental health and well-being of these essential workers, which in turn could affect their ability to provide support.

What is the significance of the Psychopathology study?

The *Psychopathology* study is significant because it sheds light on the prevalence and risk factors of secondary traumatization among interpreters. It reveals the emotional toll on these professionals and identifies resilience factors. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for developing supportive environments and protecting the well-being of interpreters. The study's findings have implications for interpreter selection, training, and supervision, fostering a more compassionate approach to refugee assistance.

What are some common symptoms of Secondary Traumatization?

Symptoms of Secondary Traumatization can include intrusive thoughts and images, emotional distress and numbness, difficulty sleeping and concentrating, increased anxiety and hyperarousal, changes in worldview and beliefs, and burnout and compassion fatigue. Recognizing these symptoms is the first step towards addressing the issue and providing interpreters with the support they need.

How can we better support interpreters who may be experiencing secondary trauma?

To support interpreters, it is essential to acknowledge the risk of secondary traumatization and implement targeted interventions. This involves providing training on trauma-informed practices, offering regular supervision, and creating opportunities for self-care and emotional processing. By focusing on the well-being of interpreters, we can ensure they are better equipped to provide vital services to vulnerable populations, leading to a more sustainable and compassionate approach to refugee assistance.