While it is not uncommon to hear compassion fatigue referred to as burnout, the conditions are not the same. Compassion fatigue is more treatable than burnout, but it can be less predictable and may come on suddenly or without much warning, whereas burnout usually develops over time.
Because it can arise so abruptly, it can be important for therapists and others in the helping professions to protect themselves from this condition. Here are 11 ways to prevent compassion fatigue from happening to you:
1. Get Educated
If you know you are at risk for compassion fatigue, taking the time to learn the signs and symptoms can be a helpful means of prevention.
Some of the most common signs and symptoms of compassion fatigue include:
- Chronic exhaustion (emotional, physical, or both)
- Reduced feelings of sympathy or empathy
- Dreading working for or taking care of another and feeling guilty as a result
- Feelings of irritability, anger, or anxiety
- Depersonalization
- Hypersensitivity or complete insensitivity to emotional material
- Feelings of inequity toward the therapeutic relationship
- Headaches
- Trouble sleeping
- Weight loss
- Impaired decision-making
- Problems in personal relationships
- Poor work-life balance
- Diminished sense of career fulfillment
Knowing the signs and symptoms and continuing to check in with yourself can help you better prevent and manage compassion fatigue if it arises.
2. Practice Self-Care
Practicing self-care can be a critical method of protecting yourself against compassion fatigue. It is not uncommon for those who are constantly concerned with the needs of others to wind up neglecting their own.
Those who practice good self-care are significantly less vulnerable to stress and compassion fatigue than those who fail to do so. A good self-care regimen will look different for each person, but it should generally include:
- Balanced, nutritious diet
- Regular exercise
- Routine schedule of restful sleep
- Balance between work and leisure
- Honoring emotional needs
3. Set Emotional Boundaries
It can be especially important for therapists, social workers, nurses, and caregivers alike to set firm emotional boundaries to protect themselves. Empathy and compassion are generally at the forefront of a human services career.
The challenge is to remain compassionate, empathetic, and supportive of others without becoming overly involved and taking on another’s pain. Setting emotional boundaries helps maintain a connection while still remembering and honoring the fact that you are a separate person with your own needs.
Excerpted from “The Cost of Caring: 10 Ways to Prevent Compassion Fatigue” in GoodTherapy. Read the full post online for details on the remaining tips:
4. Engage in Outside Hobbies
5. Cultivate Healthy Friendships Outside of Work
6. Keep a Journal
7. Boost Your Resiliency
8. Use Positive Coping Strategies
9. Identify Workplace Strategies
10. Seek Personal Therapy
Source: GoodTherapy | The Cost of Caring: 10 Ways to Prevent Compassion Fatigue, https://www.goodtherapy.org/for-professionals/business-management/human-resources/article/cost-of-caring-10-ways-to-prevent-compassion-fatigue | Copyright © 2007 – 2022 GoodTherapy, LLC
Sign up for the CHC Virtual Village to receive weekly email updates about upcoming news, events and resources related to your interests.
