Spiritual Wounds and Moral Injury in the Helping Professions

What happens when the work you do collides with what you believe? When you have to follow orders that violate your values? Or witness suffering that seems unjust?

This is moral injury, and it’s different from PTSD. It wounds the soul. And for helpers guided by a sense of mission, it can feel like you’ve lost your moral compass.

The concept of moral injury originally emerged in the context of military trauma but has since expanded to encompass a range of experiences where individuals face situations that deeply challenge or violate their personal moral or ethical beliefs.

For people in the helping professions, moral injury is more common than many realize. These emotional and existential struggles often remain hidden, because of the pressure to be "strong" or "tough" in a profession that demands constant caregiving. However, ignoring these wounds can have long-lasting effects on your mental health, relationships, and overall sense of well-being.

The good news is that healing from moral injury is possible. If you’re struggling with feelings of guilt, shame, or loss of meaning, it’s important to recognize that your pain is valid, and there are paths to healing.

By seeking therapy, you can begin to unpack these feelings and learn how to reconnect with your values, your sense of purpose, and your sense of self. The path to healing might be difficult, but it’s also one of growth, self-discovery, and ultimately, a deeper connection to both your work and your life.