Episode122: Compassion fatigue with guest Dana Young

Episode 122: Compassion Fatigue     People who are caregivers are at risk for developing compassion fatigue because they become overwhelmed with caring for others.   What is Compassion Fatigue? "Compassion fatigue, also known as second-hand shock and secondary stress reaction, describes a type of stress that results from helping or wanting to help those who are traumatized or under significant emotional duress." https://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/psychpedia/compassion-fatigue   Merriam Webster medical definition: the physical and mental exhaustion and emotional withdrawal experienced by those who care for sick or traumatized people over an extended period of time    "Unlike burnout, which is caused by everyday work stresses (dealing with insurance companies, making treatment choices), compassion fatigue results from taking on the emotional burden of a patient's agony."— Tim Jarvis   Examples: People stopping in at the church asking for help Covid-19 illness and death Counselors hearing traumatic stories from their clients Pastors ministering to families in crisis      How do you recognize it? Compassion fatigue can take a physical, mental, spiritual, and emotional toll on people who experience it. Common symptoms of compassion fatigue include: Chronic physical and emotional exhaustion Anxious and intrusive thoughts Cynicism Irritability Feelings of self-contempt Difficulty sleeping Numbness or feelings of having nothing left to give Headaches Poor job satisfaction   What are solutions for compassion fatigue?  Recognizing you have it is half the battle  Realize that you are not the savior of the world  Daily quiet time with God Set healthy boundaries  Make self care a top priority reduce your stress load get enough sleep  take vacations exercise eat healthy journal