It’s been almost 2 weeks since the July 4th floods in central Texas, particularly Kerr County, claimed nearly 130 lives, including more than 27 children at Camp Mystic, with over 100 still missing and left hundreds struggling to cope both mentally and physically. While the media coverage often centers on direct survivors and first responders, the ripples of trauma run wider, deeply affecting those who watched, listened, or cared from afar.
What Is Secondary Trauma?
Secondary trauma, also known as vicarious trauma, occurs when people exposed to traumatic events—through media, storytelling, or close connections experience symptoms akin to PTSD:
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Intrusive thoughts
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Heightened anxiety
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Sleep disturbances
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Emotional numbness or irritability
Mental health experts Tracy M. McGee and Maddie McLemore at Beaumont Enterprise note that even indirect exposure via news stories or conversations can trigger serious distress.
“That is why it’s so important to seek social support right now. To talk to others about it, to process feelings, because the main thing to steer away from is avoidance,” said McLemore. “That’s why it’s so important that we talk about it with friends, support groups, mentors and faith leaders, because if you don’t let yourself grieve and try to process, you won’t be able to grieve in a healthy way.”
Who’s Affected by Secondary Trauma?
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Family and friends of flood victims, even those far away, can develop anxiety, grief, nightmares, or somatic symptoms like nausea and insomnia .
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First responders and volunteers also face emotional burnout. Texas EquuSearch volunteer Margo Mellon described cashing in sleepless nights and detachment as they searched for missing loved ones.
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Observers and media consumers, who watched coverage on Camp Mystic and other tragedies, often report increased fear, helplessness, and hypervigilance.
Signs & Symptoms to Watch For
| Symptom Type | Examples |
|---|---|
| Emotional | Sadness, confusion, anger, emotional exhaustion |
| Cognitive | Trouble concentrating, constant worry |
| Physical | Headaches, stomach aches, insomnia |
| Behavioral | Social withdrawal, avoiding reminders of the flood |
What Trauma Experts Recommend
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Acknowledge your feelings
Admitting secondary trauma is normal—not a weakness—is the first step. At Potomac Behavioral Health we recommend emotional processing through conversation and journaling. -
Connect with others
Attend community vigils, talk with family and friends, share your emotions honestly, spend time with people who make you feel supported. Talk to children about what is happening using words that aren’t scary. Stay close to children and give them physical affection including hugs and hand holding. -
Utilize free resources
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Texas Flood Emotional Support Line (833‑812‑2480): 24/7 crisis counseling
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SAMHSA, FEMA, and CSTS resources: Toolkits and guides for emotional recovery
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Adopt trauma‑informed strategies
Use techniques like grounding, breathwork, and safe relationships. Utilize trauma-informed care—prioritizing safety, choice, trust, and empowerment.
Why Secondary Trauma Matters
Ignoring this “invisible aftermath” is dangerous. Research shows floods trigger long-lasting mental health risks, including PTSD, anxiety, and depression, not just for survivors but also for those indirectly affected. Secondary trauma can impair decision-making, strain relationships, and even erode our ability to help others when needed most. Remember to put the airplane mask on yourself first. You can’t help others when you’re overwhelmed.
Final Thoughts
While the physical floodwaters may recede, secondary trauma can persist. Recognizing its signs, seeking support, and practicing self‑care aren’t just helpful—they’re essential. By caring for our emotional well‑being, we ensure that communities heal not just in infrastructure—but in heart, mind, and spirit. Potomac Behavioral Health specializes in trauma. If you’re seeking support in Virginia or Maryland, appointments are available.