The Cost of Caring: 10 Ways to Prevent Compassion Fatigue

Compassion fatigue is characterized by physical and emotional exhaustion and a profound decrease in the ability to empathize. It is a form of secondary traumatic stress, as the stress occurs as a result of helping or wanting to help those who are in need. It is often referred to as “the cost of caring” for others who are in physical or emotional pain. If left untreated, compassion fatigue not only can affect mental and physical health, but it can also have serious legal and ethical implications when providing therapeutic services to people.

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.

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

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