Compassion fatigue can lead to exhaustion and irritability. (Representative photo)
When a person is struck by tragedy, the emotional and psychological impact can be overwhelming. But there are scenarios in which a person does not experience a tragic event, but may still feel traumatized. Secondary trauma can be triggered by world events like the war between Russia and Ukraine or the Hamas attack on Israel. According to a report published in CNN. The outlet spoke with Dr. Rebecca Sachs, a clinical psychologist in New York, who said it’s necessary to set boundaries.
What is compassion fatigue?
This is the physical and mental exhaustion and emotional withdrawal felt by those who experience secondary trauma.
“The term was created to describe the experience of people in caring roles or professions – such as therapists, firefighters, police officers, emergency room healthcare professionals,” Dr. Charles Figley, chair Kurzweg Distinguished Disaster Mental Health Fellow at Tulane University in New Orleans. , said CNN.
If a person is experiencing compassion fatigue, it can lead to exhaustion, irritability, and difficulty continuing to express empathy if it is not addressed.
What are the signs of compassion fatigue?
According to the American Psychological Association, compassion fatigue leads to loss of productivity, depression, intrusive thoughts, nervousness, fatigue, a feeling of being on edge or trapped, or an inability to separate personal and professional life .
Research also suggests that long-term stress can lead to moderate to severe mood swings, especially in people in an older age group. In such situations, people become pessimistic or quick to anger.
Compassion fatigue has also been linked to substance abuse. Overconsumption can occur in cases of alcoholism, gambling addiction, drug addiction or even workaholics, depending on WebMD.
How to deal with compassion fatigue?
Psychologist Amy M Williams, PhD, of the Henry Ford Health System, was quoted as saying that people should adopt the flight attendant mantra: “Put on your own oxygen mask before helping others.” The focus was on integrating self-care into a routine.
This includes adequate sleep, healthy eating, physical activity, relaxation and socialization. A person should carry out a self-check every morning to assess tension in the body and worries in the mind.
If caregivers and other professionals feel overwhelmed by their work, it is important to see a doctor for appropriate treatment.
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