As a mental health therapist and former animal welfare worker, I have a deep interest in helping those struggling with the emotional pain that sometimes comes with this unique, rewarding, and challenging career or lifestyle. The reality of pet overpopulation, animal abuse, dog fighting, factory farming – the list goes on – can take a hefty toll on those of us that care the most. In fact, those of us who have high levels of empathy are at a greater risk of developing compassion fatigue.
What is Compassion Fatigue?
Compassion fatigue has been described by traumatologist Charles Figley as the “cost of caring” for others in emotional pain. Long-term exposure to abuse and neglect, trauma, euthanasia, grief-stricken clients, etc., not only impacts our work productivity and satisfaction, but it can also affect us mentally, physically, emotionally, socially, and spiritually. If left unchecked, that is, if we don’t learn to manage the stress associated with helping others, our compassion satisfaction can slowly fade, leaving us feeling angry, depressed, anxious, physically exhausted, and emotionally drained.
It’s important to remember that compassion fatigue is not a physical illness or mental disorder. It’s not a sign of weakness or a character flaw. It happens to the best of us!
Symptoms and Warning Signs of Compassion Fatigue
Let’s take a moment to look at some of the symptoms and warning signs of compassion fatigue. Could you be at risk?
Depression or feeling sad
Insomnia (trouble falling or staying asleep)
Frequent nightmares or flashbacks
Fatigue or low energy
Anger or irritability
Grief
Withdrawing from others
Feeling of isolation
Loss of appetite or overeating
Loss of interest in things
Lack of motivation
Relationship conflicts (personal and/or professional)
Feelings of guilt
Feelings of emptiness
Anxiety
Low self-esteem
Feeling numb or apathetic
Work problems (often late, lots of sick days, etc.)
Poor concentration
Bodily complaints such as headaches or sore muscles
Intrusive thoughts
Feeling hopeless
Unhelpful coping skills, such as substance abuse
Negative worldview or outlook on life
Suicidal thoughts
If any of these symptoms sound familiar, you may be struggling with compassion fatigue. If so, the next question to ask yourself is, are you ready to take action and build resilience in order to manage it? Check out this article here to learn more about the stages of change to see where you're at right now!
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