Compassion Fatigue

Compassion fatigue is a condition characterized by a gradual lessening of compassion over time. You may find yourself displaying chronic stress as a result of working as a caregiver.  You might be in the medical or psychology field like I am or working with adults or children who are ill, frail, or cannot take care of themselves.  Perhaps you are taking care of individuals or animals who are elderly, sick or have been abused.  Maybe the abuse was preventable.  In any case you are not receiving much of a break.

If you feel that you may have symptoms of compassion fatigue, chances are pretty good that you are probably right.  Knowing this is the first step in improving your distress.  Figuring out how your behaviors became ingrained and why, can help you to make changes and decrease the stress and fatigue in your life.  Surprisingly, the most important step on this path is learning self-care. Not putting yourself last is the best way to improve your circumstances and give you the ability to thrive during times when you are most needed.  I can help you learn to balance work, personal needs and your important responsibilities and still flourish.

“If your compassion does not include yourself it is incomplete.”  Buddha