Compassion Fatigue & Burnout

Compassion Fatigue. Burnout. Exhaustion. Depletion. Despair.

Do any of these words sound familiar to you? This is unfortunately a very normal part of our modern world yet the feelings are avoidable, with help. Burnout is something that is completely in our control. But, can also something that we tend to ignore when it’s happening to us. Many of us care deeply and assume that our caring hearts can transcend the signs and symptoms of compassion fatigue. We often think we can just power through. Perhaps you have told yourself that once you can just get through this crazy week, month, or year, then there will be time to sleep, engage in self-care or find a healthier work-life balance. But that week never seems to happen, does it?

This is an incredible time to be alive on planet Earth. The pandemic changed so many of our lives in countless ways. Frontline workers, nurses, doctors and other healers are burning out at alarming rates. All this is happening while our systems are crumbling. Many of us are wondering when we will be able to get that break. Especially, when we’re still managing uncertainty on so many levels.

Compassion Fatigue vs. Burnout: What’s the Difference?

Compassion Fatigue: Also called vicarious trauma or secondary traumatization. The emotional residue or strain of exposure to working with those suffering from the consequences of traumatic events. It differs from burn-out but can co-exist. Compassion Fatigue can occur due to exposure in one case or can be due to a cumulative level of exposure to trauma/traumatic events.

Burnout: The cumulative process marked by emotional exhaustion and withdrawal associated with increased workload and institutional stress, NOT trauma-related.

Compassion fatigue has a more rapid onset while burnout emerges over time. Compassion fatigue has a faster recovery (less severe, if recognized and managed early). As with all things, these symptoms vary from person to person.

You Can Keep Your Heart Open & Reclaim Your Life Force

This world needs more open hearts. Perhaps you are looking for a way to continue to do what you love to do in a way in which you thrive instead of just survive. In order to do this, you need a plan. This plan will help you slow down, become grounded and participate in meaningful self-care activities. The pandemic has given us an opportunity to re-evaluate our lives and create change that aligns with our values. The more we do this as individuals, the more we are contributing to the collective.

If this resonates with you, then I would love to offer you a 15 minute consultation call to see if we are a good match. I offer online therapy throughout Colorado for compassion fatigue and burnout. I also have availability to meet clients in person at my Fort Collins office. I look forward to walking beside you on your healing journey.