How has secondary trauma affected Mariska Hargitay's approach to her role on SVU This emotional toll motivated her to create the Joyful Heart Foundation in 2004, which focuses on supporting survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, and child abuse. The foundation allows her to channel the trauma she has absorbed into tangible action, such as addressing the backlog of untested rape kits across the U.S.[1][2]. Additionally, Hargitay has adapted coping mechanisms on set, including creating a private space to regroup during difficult moments[1].