Compassion fatigue occurs when a care provider internalizes the feelings and emotions regarding the care of another to the detriment of her own health. People who are naturally drawn to the helping professions are more likely to suffer from compassion fatigue, but family care providers, members of the clergy and community volunteers also are susceptible. Warning signs include increased irritability, sleep disturbances, substance abuse and depression. According to counselor and psychotherapist Coleen Breen, a holistic approach that honors the physical, mental and spiritual aspects of the care provider is likely to be the most successful treatment for compassion fatigue.
Step 1
Make self-care your top priority. Eat regular meals with healthy portions of protein, vegetables and whole grains. Exercise daily and make time for socializing with friends and family.
Step 2
Keep a daily journal and record the details of your day. Write about any incident that upset you and take time to explore your feelings about the situation. Finish each entry with an encouraging message or quote that comforts you.
Step 3
Join or organize a support group. Share your feelings with other care providers or those in similar circumstances who understand the challenges of care giving. Consider taking a workshop or training seminar that will help you to work through your feelings.
Step 4
Set aside 30 minutes each day for a personal self-care activity. Ask coworkers or friends what they do to unwind if you have trouble choosing an activity for yourself. Take a 10- or 15-minute mini-break or a catnap in the middle of the day.
Step 5
Be willing to ask for help. Learn to delegate and make it a priority to resist taking on more responsibilities than you can manage comfortably.
Tips and Warnings
- All care providers are at risk for compassion fatigue. Learn the major signs of compassion fatigue and talk to your primary health care provider if you are unable to manage symptoms on your own.
- Unremitting compassion fatigue can have serious health consequences for the care provider.
References
- MedPage Today: 'Compassion Fatigue' Drains Some Caregivers
- Hazelden: Caregivers Need Self-Care to Battle Compassion Fatigue
- Scrubs: How Do I Deal With Compassion Fatigue?; Janice Putrino LMSW; February, 2010
- Compassion Fatigue Solutions: Top 12 Self-Care Tips for Helpers, Francoise Mathieu, M.Ed.; March, 2007
- American Academy of Family Physicians: Overcoming Compassion Fatigue
