Compassion Fatigue

Compassion Fatigue (notes) There is a course in Kingston by Francoise Mathieu who teaches there regarding this topic. It is 20 hours long and I would love to take this course but it is too far and too long for me being away. It may or may not be something I would consider in the future. Our instructor took this course and so I shall be sharing with you. The training is “Walk the Walk.” So, here goes. What is Compassion Fatigue? (Figley (1982). We are all profoundly effected by the work we do and if we are not, we may be suffering from compassionate fatigue. Our work though mostly rewarding can be difficult. Difficult clients, case loads - we are at primary risk for compassionate fatigue. It is an occupational hazard. There are three terms. Compassionate fatigue, Vicarious Trauma and Burn Out. Compassionate Fatigue refers to the profound emotional and physical erosion that takes place. Vicarious Trauma - stories we hear from our clients. Burn-out - exhaustion. The difference: we have not lost compassion. Why Compassionate Fatigue and Vicarious Trauma? 1. Nature of the work - case content and workload (what is our balance). 2. Our own vulnerabilities. Eg. if we are grieving, our own trauma, experience etc….more vulnerable. 3. Cynical and negative colleagues. 4. Insufficient training. Risk Factors: The more trauma cases you have, the more likely you are to develop Vicarious Trauma. - Inexperience (emotional impactful) - being isolated from other therapists (private practice). Huge risk factor. Our own trauma history. Negative and positive implications. - Personal injury or illness. concurrent life crises - divorce, grief. Don’t have the energy. Stress is cumulative. Migrating Factors : 1. Access to social support (at home and at work). 2. Working part time doing trauma work is highly protective. Variety is healthier (that is what I do). 3. Reflection on compassion satisfaction. 4. Adequate training about Compassion Fatigue, Vicarious Trauma and Burn Out is protective. Next Week Signs and symptoms of Compassion Fatigue and Vicarious Trauma.