Two American scientists show how moral injury can be managed, a suffering we can feel when we are obliged to act against our moral beliefs.
Moral injury can be associated with continuous stress. Source: freepik.com
“I wake up struggling emotionally and ethically in today’s polarized world. I have a job in the field of health and I am often in situations where I have to act in ways that contravene my values, whether it is because of the hospital policies or the general condition of our health system. How do I sail through this? ”was the question to which psychoanalyst Robin Stern and psychologist Marc Brackett answered, in an article published in “The Washington Post”.
According to therapists, initially studied in military contexts, the concept of moral injury has been extended to include various personal and professional situations. Although moral injury is not classified as a diagnosis of mental health, such as post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or depression, it often coexists with these conditions. It is not only emotional, and can manifest itself as physical symptoms.
“Research shows that people suffering from moral injury can have sleep disorders, persistent fatigue, headaches and difficulty concentrating. People could see changes in their eating habits, experience unexplained pain or constantly feel tension. These symptoms can be particularly pronounced during periods of increased stress ””shows scientists in the article published in the US.
Some people develop a kind of resigned adaptation, in front of it, even if this affects their well -being. Sometimes, however, moral injury can be exhausting and can push people to make radical decisions: to choose to leave the job, relationship or community. For most, however, the financial needs of lifestyle and family do this impossible.
Recommendations to fight “moral injury”
Regardless of the decisions taken by those affected by moral injury, the two specialists offer some practical approaches that can help them diminish its impact:
Validate your emotions
Recognize that feelings of guilt, anger, sadness or disillusionment are valid.
“These emotions often come from a deep sense of care and commitment to your values. Allow yourself to recognize and process these feelings without judging”, The authors of The Washington Post show.
Focus on areas where you can make changes
Although you cannot control each problem, identify the areas where you can take significant measures.
“These may include volunteering, supporting changes in the system or involving in the management of the organization you belong to. Aligning parts of your life with your values can help restore a sense of purpose and action”, I write the two specialists.
Build compassion
Recognize that others may face their own moral complexity, even when their beliefs may differ from yours.
“Practicing compassion does not mean agreeing with them, but it can reduce the alienation that supplies suffering and can promote more constructive dialogues.”complete the therapists.
Connect with similar communities
Finding a community of people who share your concerns can give you solidarity and amplify efforts for change.
“Either through professional organizations, support groups or local public support networks, these links can help combat insulation feelings”,
Practice self-care
Maintaining physical and mental health is essential. Practices such as meditation, regular exercise and cultivation of social relationships can help you develop your resistance and cope with stressful situations.
“Moral damage can also serve as a catalyst for growth and change. By staying on your values and taking constructive measures, you can transform emotional suffering into a significant dialogue, education or activism. Although browsing these challenges is not easy, they have the potential to inspire progress – for you, your profession and the world around you ”I write Robin Stern and Marc Brackett.
