Secondary traumatic stress (STS) is a significant concern among mental health professionals working with trauma-exposed populations. While previous research has largely focused on individual-level predictors of STS, less is known about how professionals experience and make sense of these challenges within specific sociocultural contexts. This study explores the lived experiences of STS among professionals working with war refugees in Lithuania.

This qualitative study employed reflexive thematic analysis to explore the lived experiences of six Lithuanian mental health professionals (psychologists, social workers, and a volunteer) providing psychological support to war-affected refugees. Participants reported mild to high STS levels on a standardized screening measure. Semi-structured interviews were conducted online and analyzed inductively.

Five interconnected themes were identified: coping techniques; emotions toward refugees; emotional experiences of refugee work; motivation for engagement; consequences of refugee work; and challenges within refugee care. Empathic engagement emerged as both emotionally taxing and morally meaningful, encapsulated by participants’ sense of “hurting because they are hurting”. The analysis further indicates that these experiences may be shaped by broader sociocultural and historical contexts.

This study highlights the complexity of STS as both an individual and relational experience embedded within professional and cultural contexts. The findings suggest the importance of culturally sensitive support systems and organisational practices to support professionals working with trauma-exposed populations.