Burnout and Compassion Fatigue – Helping the Helper

“The expectation that we can be immersed in suffering and loss and not be touched by it is as unrealistic as expecting to walk through water and not get wet.”

In this heartfelt and practical episode, we’re diving into a topic that hits close to home for many who lead, serve, and support others: Compassion Fatigue.

If you’ve ever felt emotionally drained, physically exhausted, or like you’ve lost your sense of purpose in helping roles—you’re not alone. This episode is for you.

What You’ll Learn:

• What compassion fatigue really is (and what it isn’t)
• How to recognize the signs before it leads to burnout
• Tangible steps to prevent and manage it in healthy, life-giving ways

What is Compassion Fatigue?

Compassion fatigue is more than just being tired—it’s the cost of caring deeply, especially when we regularly witness pain, suffering, or trauma. It's where vicarious trauma and burnout meet.

You might be experiencing compassion fatigue if you:

• Absorb others’ pain
• Feel overwhelmed or emotionally numb
• Struggle to see progress or purpose in your work

Recognizing the Signs:

Emotional: Helplessness, anger, sadness, hypervigilance
Cognitive: Apathy, distraction, trauma preoccupation
Interpersonal: Isolation, mistrust, relational numbness
Physical: Exhaustion, frequent illness, chronic pain
Behavioral: Irritability, addiction, negativity
Work-Related: Absenteeism, detachment, loss of morale

6 Practical Ways to Manage Compassion Fatigue:

1. Press Pause – Rest, reset, and find your rhythm again
2. Create Space – Set boundaries and say “no” without guilt
3. Remember Your Why – Reconnect to your purpose
4. Build Community – Healing happens in safe relationships
5. Make Healthy Decisions – Small changes like water, sunlight, less screen time
6. Take One Step – Choose one action today: therapy, journaling, or deep breathing

Reflection & Next Steps:

• How is compassion fatigue showing up in your life?
• What’s helped you stay grounded and energized?
• What’s one small step you can take today toward healing?

📚 Recommended Resources:

• Spiritual Practices for the Brain by Anne Kertz Kernion
• The Emotionally Healthy Leader by Peter Scazzero
• Strong Like Water by Aundi Kolber

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