For Complainants, Respondents, Witnesses and supporters, engaging in an investigative process can be an extremely stressful experience. Those involved in implementing restrictions or determining disciplinary measures can be affected as well. Stress can have a profoundly negative effect on a person's mental health, especially throughout the course of an investigation when outcomes are uncertain. Anxiety, depression, increased substance use and even vicarious trauma can add an extra burden to an already difficult situation. To prevent and minimize impacts, we encourage UBC community members to have information on resources available and tips on managing mental health during an investigation.

While we do everything we can to minimize disruptions to mental wellness during investigations, we recognize that this is not always possible. We also acknowledge that experiencing emotions like anger, shame, guilt, anxiety, frustration or grief can be normal reactions in the context of investigations. For more information on supports and services, refer to the 'Resources' section at the end of this course.

The following information can apply to those involved directly in the Investigative process, as well as those involved in more of a periphery role.

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Managing Mental Wellness During Investigations

1) Focus on the Basics

Making sure you get enough sleep, nutrition and exercise sounds like a simple and obvious strategy, but it can't be emphasized enough. These are the most foundational aspects of wellness. Especially when we are feeling overwhelmed or uncertain, focusing on the basics is the best place to start.

2) Assess your Support Network

No one has to go through an investigation alone. Decide who you want to be involved with and how they can help you. Let the person know what you want them to support you with, whether it's checking in or attending investigative meetings with you. (Some collective bargaining units will also have mandatory representation.)

3) Inform the Investigator

Let your Investigator know if you have mental or physical health issues that may affect the investigative process or outcome. If you require accommodations during the process, it is helpful to discuss this with your Investigator early on in the process.

Special Considerations for Staff and Faculty

UBC Staff and Faculty may engage with the IO and sexual misconduct related matters as Complainants, Respondents, Witnesses, or disciplinary decision makers. All of these interactions could potentially be stressful and/or traumatic.

One of the most common concerns among Staff and Faculty relates to vicarious trauma. People who are untrained in responding to traumatic situations are at risk of vicarious trauma, as they may find themselves in positions where they are hearing/reading things that can be extremely upsetting. Even those who do have training on how to manage vicarious trauma are still at risk.

1) Ask as little as possible

When receiving information on sexual misconduct, it is imperative to ask as little as possible when receiving a Disclosure. This is consistent with a trauma-informed approach. You can say things like:

'I'm here to listen and help. I don't need to know the details of what happened to be able to help figure out what to do next.'

'What do you need?'

Be honest about your limitations. It's ok to say 'I'm not trained to discuss details of what happened to you, but if you like, I can connect you with someone who is.'

There are times where asking detailed questions may be appropriate. For example, an investigator would need to know details of the case to proceed with the investigation. A therapist, counsellor or doctor may guide Complainants and Respondents with specific lines of questioning as part of mental health treatment.

However, most Staff and Faculty will not need details, and by setting these boundaries, it will help protect you from developing vicarious trauma. It will also promote our institutional trauma-informed approach by reducing the number of times Complainants and Respondents have to tell their stories.

2) Recognize the symptoms of vicarious trauma

Generally speaking, it's ideal to be able to put an incident 'out of our minds' within a day or two after hearing about it. If the mind is lingering on the details, or replaying conversations/scenarios several days or weeks later, it may be beneficial to access support. Problems with sleep or appetite can also be warning signs that vicarious trauma has had an effect, as well as irritability, difficulty with focus or tearfulness.

3) Reach out for Help

Vicarious trauma is not uncommon, and can be managed and treated. Early detection and treatment can be helpful to reduce long term effects and consequences. If you think you may be experiencing vicarious trauma, it's reasonable to take a preventative approach and seek help before your symptoms become troubling.

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UBC's Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP)

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