Burnout and Compassion Fatigue
Areas of Focus
What happens when a once-beloved activity becomes draining and joyless? Do you find yourself cynical, isolated, or anxious? Are intrusive thoughts, empathy loss, disrupted sleep, or difficulty concentrating part of your daily experience? According to Dr. Charles Figley, compassion fatigue is the toll of caring deeply for others in emotional and physical distress.
Caring deeply and working tirelessly can exhaust you physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. This depletion can leave you feeling utterly spent—the passion, heart, concern, and empathy that initially drove you to your caregiving role can paradoxically lead to compassion fatigue and burnout.
While burnout and compassion fatigue differ, they often overlap. Professionals like nurses, doctors, pastors, veterinarians, child protection workers, therapists, police officers, firefighters, hospice workers, ministry volunteers, missionaries, and caregivers for the critically and chronically ill are particularly susceptible.
If you’re experiencing these effects and ready to transition from caregiver to care-receiver, we’re here to assist. We understand the toll of caregiving and aim to provide relief, hope, and healing so you can continue your caregiving role with renewed strength and wellness.