Also known as vicarious traumatization or secondary traumatization, this condition arises from prolonged exposure to individuals suffering from the effects of trauma. It differs from burnout, though both can occur simultaneously. Compassion fatigue may result from a single case or develop over time due to repeated exposure to distressing situations.
Burnout
A gradual process characterized by emotional exhaustion and detachment, often linked to excessive workload and institutional stress. Unlike compassion fatigue, burnout is not directly caused by trauma but rather by sustained work-related pressures.
Primary Traumatic Stress
This refers to the direct experience of a distressing event. It involves firsthand exposure to extreme situations, such as witnessing or personally enduring traumatic incidents, which may lead to psychological distress.
Mother Teresa’s Perspective on Compassion Fatigue
Recognizing the emotional toll of caregiving, she implemented a policy requiring her nuns to take a year-long break every four to five years to recover from the emotional demands of their work.
Identifying Burnout vs. Compassion Fatigue
Stages of Burnout
Burnout typically develops in four stages:
Enthusiasm
Stagnation
Frustration
Apathy
Both caregivers and their support systems, including family members and colleagues, are susceptible. Exposure to trauma should be avoided unless necessary for professional duties.
Similarities Between Burnout and Compassion Fatigue
Emotional exhaustion
Decreased sense of accomplishment or purpose
Mental fatigue
Withdrawal from social interactions (isolation)
Disconnection between symptoms and actual causes (depersonalization)
Physical exhaustion
The key difference is that compassion fatigue sets in quickly, whereas burnout develops gradually. However, compassion fatigue tends to improve faster if addressed early.
Symptoms of Compassion Fatigue
Impacts multiple aspects of well-being
Disruptions in the nervous system that lead to sleep problems
Increased emotional sensitivity
Declining cognitive function
Impaired judgment and behavior
Isolation and loss of motivation
Risk of depression and PTSD
Reduced self-worth and difficulty regulating emotions
Changes in identity, belief systems, and spirituality
Loss of trust, security, and self-esteem
Feelings of hopelessness and existential distress
Anger directed at those responsible for traumatic events
Compassion fatigue does not happen suddenly. It is a gradual process that unfolds over time, sometimes taking weeks or even years to become noticeable. It is not as if one day, you are full of energy and motivation, and the next, you wake up feeling completely drained. Instead, it slowly builds, leading to a persistent sense of emotional and physical exhaustion.
This condition often results in a gradual dulling of empathy and concern for others, whether in a professional setting or personal life. Over time, the ability to care deeply for others diminishes due to continuous exposure to stress and emotional demands. Some individuals may even experience a form of emotional numbing, where their reactions to situations become noticeably different from what would typically be expected.
Tips for Managing Compassion Fatigue
Things to Do:
Talk to someone you trust about your feelings.
Recognize that the emotions you’re experiencing are a natural response.
Maintain a balanced diet and engage in regular physical activity.
Prioritize getting enough rest each night.
Allow yourself breaks and time away when needed.
Cultivate hobbies and interests outside of work.
Reflect on your personal values and what truly matters to you.
Things to Avoid:
Placing blame on others.
Making impulsive life changes such as quitting a job, making major purchases, or ending relationships.
Constantly venting with colleagues in a way that reinforces negativity.
Taking legal action as an immediate response to stress.
Pushing yourself to work longer hours in an attempt to cope.
Relying on substances as a way to manage emotions.
Ignoring your own well-being and personal needs.
The ABCs of Prevention
Awareness
What kinds of situations contribute to higher stress levels, making you more vulnerable to compassion fatigue?
Consider events or circumstances that trigger an intense emotional response, overwhelming your usual coping strategies.
Are you noticing any of these patterns in your daily work? If so, you may be at risk for compassion fatigue.
Finding it difficult to function as you normally would.
Experiencing a situation that feels far from routine and emotionally distressing.
Feeling “compassion stress” that pushes past your usual emotional boundaries.
Waking up exhausted and struggling to get through the workday.
Feeling like you're working harder but achieving less.
Becoming easily frustrated or irritated.
Losing empathy for some people while feeling overly invested in others.
Frequently feeling bored or disengaged.
Experiencing physical symptoms like frequent aches, pains, or illness.
Balance
Maintaining Balance in Your Life
Prioritize Self-Care
Taking care of yourself is essential. Make time for activities that bring joy, relaxation, and a break from daily stress. Small moments of escape can help reduce work-related intensity and refresh your mind. Shift negative experiences by finding meaning, challenging negative thoughts, and practicing gratitude. If symptoms of stress interfere with daily life, seek medical help rather than turning to substances. Professional guidance can also be beneficial when you need support to regain balance.
Balancing Exercise
Identify one small activity that has helped you feel refreshed and renewed.
Think of one thing that brings you happiness.
List three things you are grateful for today.
Recall a moment that brought you joy and create a personal top ten list of these moments.
Reach out to someone you love today – give them a call.
What made you laugh today? Share it with someone.
Discover Your Passion
Everyone has a source of energy and healing within them. Recognizing what truly excites and motivates you can help reduce fatigue. A balanced life includes activities that you are passionate about and truly value. Make time for what fuels your spirit.
Balance for Inner Well-Being
Find a peaceful space where you can be alone and recharge. Understand what restores and energizes you. Acknowledge feelings of loss and grief when they arise. Stay committed to your career goals and personal mission. Focus on what is within your control and view challenges as opportunities rather than burdens.
Connections
Managing Stress Effectively
Talking about stress can help you process emotions and reactions. Share your thoughts with someone you trust, whether it’s a coworker, therapist, spiritual advisor, close friend, family member, or supervisor. Having an outlet for your concerns can make challenges feel more manageable.
Surround yourself with people who uplift and support you rather than adding to your stress. A positive support system should provide encouragement, understanding, and practical help when needed.
Animals offer unconditional love and companionship without expecting anything in return. Unlike people, they don’t experience burnout, making them a perfect source of comfort. Studies show that spending time with pets can help lower blood pressure and heart rate, contributing to a sense of calm and relaxation.
Mary Watson
