What is compassion fatigue? · 2018-04-14 · What is compassion fatigue? Described by...
Transcript of What is compassion fatigue? · 2018-04-14 · What is compassion fatigue? Described by...
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By Jennifer A. Blough, LPC, Certified Compassion Fatigue Therapist, Certified Pet Loss Grief Specialist Author – To Save a Starfish: A Compassion Fatigue Workbook for the Animal Welfare WarriorHost – The Compassion Fatigue Podcast
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What is compassion fatigue? Described by traumatologist Charles Figley as the “cost of caring” for people or animals that are suffering or who have been traumatized.
A variety of symptoms that are normal and a natural consequence of helping others.
Affects those in various helping fields, including police officers, fire fighters, nurses, therapists, and, of course, animal welfare workers and activists.
Long‐term exposure to abuse, neglect, euthanasia, grief, pet overpopulation, etc. can take a heavy toll.
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Symptoms of compassion fatigue Depression/sadness Insomnia Nightmares Low energy Anger/irritability Grief Social isolation Appetite changes Loss of interest/pleasure
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Symptoms continued… Relationship conflicts Hypervigilance Feelings of guilt Numb, zombie‐like Feeling empty Work problems Anxiety Low self‐esteem Poor concentration
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Symptoms continued… Bodily complaints Intrusive thoughts Feeling hopeless Loss of sense of humor Unhealthy coping skills Suicidal thoughts
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Please remember that compassion fatigue is a set of symptoms...it is NOT a sign of weakness, a character flaw, or a mental illness. It is normal!
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What causes compassion fatigue?
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Personality and Temperament High levels of empathy and compassion
Tend to put others’ needs ahead of our own
View our work as a “calling” rather than just a career or hobby
Highly sensitive
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Exposure to trauma
History of trauma Primary trauma Secondary trauma
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Is compassion fatigue the same as burnout? Anyone can burn out… Toxic work environment Lack of control Poor support system Not enough balance
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How is compassion fatigue affecting you? The Professional Quality of Life Scale (ProQol) measures positive and negative effects of helping others who are suffering or who have been traumatized.
Measures compassion fatigue, burnout, and compassion satisfaction.
Free self‐test at proqol.org. When taking the test, you may substitute “people” with “animals.”
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Preventing and managing compassion fatigue with self‐care
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Get your ZZZs… Establish a sleep schedule Try not to nap Avoid alcohol, nicotine, and caffeine six hours before bedtime
Exercise daily Try a warm bath or shower Keep room cool, dark, and quiet
Turn off all electronics
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Fuel your body Limit alcohol, caffeine, sugar, and simple carbs
Add healthy, mood‐boosting foods including:
Leafy greens Sweet potatoes Oats Berries Walnuts Avocados Water or herbal teas Fruit/veggie smoothies
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Beat the compassion fatigue blues with exercise Aim for 30 minutes a day Exercise releases “feel good” hormones
Physical activity helps to combat depression and anxiety
Walking for 30 minutes a day is a natural anti‐depressant!
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Practice self‐care with relaxation techniques
Deep breathing Meditation Massage Yoga Stretching Guided imagery Progressive muscle relaxation
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Mindful deep breathing
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Finding support Friends, family, and co‐workers
IDA helpline Professional counseling Facebook/LinkedIn groups The Compassion Fatigue Podcast
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1‐800‐273‐8255
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To Save a Starfish: A Compassion Fatigue Workbook for the Animal Welfare Warrior –now available through Amazon!
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Jennifer Blough contact info: [email protected]