The concept of “compassion fatigue” was initially introduced in relation to nurses who provide care, demonstrate compassion, and occasionally witness traumatic events.
Compassion fatigue consists of two main aspects: emotional exhaustion and potential secondary trauma from observing the suffering of others.
Moreover, it isn’t limited to nurses; individuals in caring and related professions—those who must engage emotionally with others—are also vulnerable. Even outside professional settings, if you invest considerable emotional energy into supporting someone else and witness their pain, you may be at risk.
Research conducted on nurses has shown that compassion fatigue manifests in at least two primary forms.
First, it can present as a sort of emotional numbness (think of it as a defensive reaction to shield yourself from complete emotional exhaustion).
Secondly, it can lead to physical symptoms, which can include stomach issues, fatigue, and sleep disturbances.
A 2022 study featuring interviews with nurses yielded particularly noteworthy insights. For instance, one nurse described compassion fatigue as “a distinct type of exhaustion—cloudy, profound, like being enveloped in clouds or experiencing the fatigue of a hangover.”
Another nurse remarked about the emotional paralysis saying: “It’s akin to being a foil-covered person, deflecting everything… what is shared never truly reaches me… it just bounces off.”
Unfortunately, studies indicate that compassion fatigue can lead to a kind of façade. While one might outwardly appear caring and empathetic, internally, they may not genuinely feel these emotions.
This disconnection can be distressing and further intensify feelings of fatigue.
It can lead to questioning your own values (for instance, if I aspire to be a compassionate individual, why do I feel less concern for this person?).
On a positive note, there is emerging research, though of varying quality, aimed at addressing and overcoming compassion fatigue.
A primary approach is to practice self-compassion, which involves allocating time for self-care and stepping back from the responsibilities of caring for others. This could include activities like walking in nature, practicing mindfulness, exercising, reading, watching television, or socializing with friends.
While this may sound straightforward, it can be challenging when you’re feeling emotionally depleted. A useful technique is to visualize the self-care advice you would give to a valued friend and apply that same counsel to yourself.
This article responds to the inquiry (from Yvonne Tevlin via email) “How can I overcome compassion fatigue?”
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