Compassion Fatigue Prevention

The term “compassion fatigue” has traditionally been used to describe a common experience for first responders, medical providers, and those in the helping professions. Sometimes known as secondary trauma, it occurs when those who are routinely exposed to others’ trauma begin to experience some of the same symptoms.

However, compassion fatigue doesn’t just impact frontline workers. It can also take a damaging toll on the friends and loved ones of a person struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, substance abuse disorder, or another serious mental health condition. There are few life challenges that compare to watching a close friend or family member battle mental illness or addiction.