You are not alone. Compassion Fatigue can impact all caregivers!
Compassion fatigue is a broadly defined concept that can include emotional, physical, and spiritual distress in those providing care to another. It is associated with caregiving where people are experiencing significant emotional or physical pain and suffering.
Am I struggling with Compassion Fatigue? Take this Self-Assessment
For an in-depth self-assessment on Compassion Fatigue and Burnout, take this self-assessment.
Coping & Healing from Compassion Fatigue
- Focus on the four core components of resilience:
- Adequate sleep
- Good nutrition and hydration
- Regular physical activity
- Active relaxation.
- Spend time with friends and family.
- Learn about your colleagues at work, so you can establish connections.
- Celebrate successes and mourn sorrows with your co-workers.
- Wash up after your work shift as a symbolic “washing away.”
- Create individual ceremonies or rituals that allow you to focus your thoughts on letting go of stress or honoring a memory of something positive.
- Allow yourself some time to be alone so you can think.
- Practice your spiritual beliefs or reach out to a faith leader for support.
- Take time away from work to experience other things.
- Find things to look forward to!
More Compassion Fatigue Resources:
Understand & Overcome Your Compassion Fatigue: An Online Guide
Professional Quality of Life Tools
Relaxation Resources:
Headspace (Free for Spectrum Health Lakeland team members)
Progressive Muscle Relaxation Video
Deep Breathing
Phone Apps:
Mindshift
Moodkit (Apple) or Moodtools (Android)