You Might Be Feeling Compassion Fatigue: Here's How To Manage It

But for some people, the feeling of exhaustion around this year's events may extend beyond general fatigue. What some people are experiencing is more of an emotional exhaustion from trying to care so much about so many people and issues at once. There's actually a word for this feeling, which is distinct from run-of-the-mill burnout: compassion fatigue1. 

"Compassion fatigue can lead to feeling disconnected and angry with ourselves and those we serve," board-certified psychiatrist Kimberly Sanders, M.D., tells mbg. "It really has to do more with empathy and our capacity to share another person's experience. When the lines become blurred with ourselves and those we intend to help, compassion fatigue or secondary traumatic stress can begin to set in."

According to Sanders, burnout can happen in any job and is caused by the stress of the work itself, whereas compassion fatigue is caused by the nature of the relationship between the helper and the person receiving help. Burnout may be a component of compassion fatigue, but the latter also deals with interpersonal dynamics involved in trying to help someone.

One study published in Social Work Research found mindfulness (particularly guided imagery) can decrease anxiety and improve sleep quality in people suffering from compassion fatigue. A few other mindfulness techniques include meditation, journaling, and even sleeping a little longer each night.

One of her favorite methods for increasing compassion is a loving-kindness meditation. These usually affirm a person's own worth and right to happiness and safety, she says. "It can be a helpful way to stay grounded while simultaneously acknowledging your connection to and distinction from those you serve."

It's OK to admit that you can't do it all on your own. Receiving support from others can help you relinquish some of the emotional burden that's too heavy to carry alone. Plus, confiding in others has been shown to protect against depressive symptoms. Friends, family members, co-workers, and mental health professionals can all be beneficial.

There are many social causes to care about and fight for right now, but it's important to be mindful of our own mental health and protect ourselves from compassion fatigue. Ultimately, taking care of yourself is what will allow you to keep showing up for the people you care about.