"When we're looking for compassion, we need someone who is deeply rooted, is able to bend and, most of all, embraces us for our strengths and struggles."

— Brene Brown

The brutal realities of caring for COVID positive patients have taken a toll on healthcare workers for the past 20 months. They face long hours, staffing shortages, and few ICU beds, all the while caring for very sick patients.

It is unsurprising, then, that some healthcare workers are struggling with compassion fatigue.

What is compassion fatigue?

As defined by CR Figley, compassion fatigue “describes the deep mental, physical, and emotional exhaustion that can come from directly interacting with and caring for others who have experienced or are experiencing emotional pain, physical hurt, or trauma.”

How to spot compassion fatigue

Signs of compassion fatigue include feelings of helplessness, feeling detached or irritable, or blaming oneself for being unable to relieve suffering. There are also physical symptoms such as fatigue, difficulty sleeping, and changes in appetite.

Here are some resources for those struggling with compassion fatigue:

Preventing Compassion Fatigue: Caring for Ourselves While Caring for Others

“Social support is frequently cited in the literature as helping to minimize stress reactions, such as compassion fatigue in caregivers. A positive social support network and a work-related support network can both serve as a life-line in navigating very stressful work periods.

Social support can come from family or friends, but those we turn to for support need to be helpful and energizing to us rather than draining. It may be tempting to not reach out to your own support systems when feeling short on time or energy, but doing so may be just what is required to help restore balance.”

6 Ways to Combat Pandemic Compassion Fatigue

“When things feel overwhelming, it helps to zoom in on the things that don’t. Simple routines can become a lifesaver when the world is in chaos.

Put your energy into cooking nourishing meals, watching your favorite shows, or going for a walk in your favorite park. Maybe you take some time to clean out your closet or organize your bookshelf.

These seemingly simple acts can bring back a sense of normalcy and agency when we’re feeling impotent.”

Compassion Fatigue Symptoms and Strategies

“Oftentimes, the person affected is the last to recognize what is happening. If you are a friend, family member, or a colleague to someone who you feel may be exhibiting signs of compassion fatigue, bringing it to their attention to critical to their mental well-being.”

If you are struggling with feelings of hopelessness, call the Physician Support Line:

1 (888) 409-0141.

Keeping Our Compassion