Compassion Fatigue
Today we want to talk about compassion fatigue. Compassion fatigue generally results in physical and emotional exhaustion and a decrease in the ability to empathize. It is considered a secondary traumatic stress as it results from helping those who are in need. Some people may refer to this as burnout but they are not the same. Compassion fatigue is more treatable but less predictable as it may come on suddenly and without warning and burnout develops over time.
You are in this profession because you desire to help people and serve your community. That can result in compassion fatigue and we want to help you overcome it. Here are five things to help with compassion fatigue.
1. Get Educated – the most common signs and symptoms of compassion fatigue include:
a. Chronic exhaustion (emotional, physical or both)
b. Reduced feelings of sympathy or empathy
c. Irritability, anger or anxiety
d. Headaches
e. Hypersensitivity or insensitivity to emotional things
f. Trouble sleeping
g. Impaired decision making
h. Dreading work and feeling guilty
2. Engage in Outside Hobbies – it is not always easy but you need to make time for the things that you enjoy outside of work. Spend time with your family, take an art class, read a book, play a sport. Do something that you love and enjoy.
3. Practice Self Care
Balanced, nutritious diet
Regular exercise
Routine schedule of restful sleep
Balance between work and leisure
4. Cultivate Healthy Friendships Outside of Work – work relationships are important but it is just as vital to have healthy relationships outside of work. You need people who have other interests and can talk about things beyond work.
5. Use Positive Coping Strategies – these can include deep breathing, meditation, taking a walk, talking with a friend, watching a funny movie, or relaxing in a hot bath.
We want you to be the best you can be, so follow these tips and ask for help when you need it. Don’t forget to follow us here and on Facebook. See you next time!!