Mariska Hargitay, the renowned star of “Law and Order: SVU,” has openly shared how her role has affected her mental health. In an interview with Selena Gomez for Interview magazine, Hargitay spoke about experiencing secondary trauma after portraying victims of sexual assault and domestic violence for more than two decades.

She acknowledged the emotional burden of the role, admitting that she didn’t fully grasp the trauma she would encounter when she first took on the character of Detective Olivia Benson. Hargitay stressed the significance of seeking support and employing healthy coping strategies to navigate the difficult subject matter.

In response to the emotional challenges of her work, Hargitay established the Joyful Heart Foundation in 2004. This non-profit organization is committed to assisting survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, and child abuse. Through her foundation, Hargitay has played a crucial role in raising awareness and advocating for change in the fight against these serious issues.

Her candidness about dealing with secondary trauma serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of mental health for those in high-pressure professions. It also underscores the ongoing need for support and resources for survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence.