Signs of Compassion Fatigue in Family Caregivers
Caring for an older adult family member or friend can be a rewarding experience. The downside is that family caregivers can also experience compassion fatigue, or worse, caregiver burnout.
Also known as secondary traumatic stress, compassion fatigue is a term that describes the physical, emotional, and psychological impact of caring for others. It is often associated with nurses and therapists, but anyone who has a caretaking role, including those who work with animals, can experience compassion fatigue.
Compassion fatigue tends to come on quickly, whereas burnout occurs over weeks to months of constant exposure to a stressful environment. Compassion fatigue is a concept that should be discussed now more than ever. Not only in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, but also as more people take on the responsibility of caring for their loved ones, as aging in place grows in popularity.
The Compassion Fatigue Awareness Project states that compassion fatigue symptoms are elevated displays of chronic stress resulting from the caregiving work we choose to do.
Read on for the top signs of compassion fatigue that many family caregivers can experience.
3 Signs of Compassion Fatigue in Family Caregivers
Mood Swings Along With the Reduced Ability to Care or Find Empathy
Mood swings are a common symptom of compassion fatigue caused by stress and anxiety from an increased workload. Specifically, watch for an increase in anger or irritability followed by a sense of low self-esteem or hopelessness. Often, these mood swings result in quick fixes that can worsen mood swings.
Negative Coping Behaviors
Alcohol or drug use, gambling or overeating are examples of ways people find comfort or blow off steam. When feeling distressed or anxious, it’s common to turn to quick fixes that help temporarily. The problem is that these quick fixes can be used for long periods of time and can be addictive. This can quickly turn compassion fatigue into caregiver burnout.
Physical Symptoms
Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, digestive issues, headache and exhaustion are all common physical signs of compassion fatigue. Weight loss or weight gain can also be a warning sign that your body is telling you something is wrong.
How to Manage Compassion Fatigue
Treating compassion fatigue comes down to prioritizing self care. Take care of yourself so you can take care of others.
Educate yourself on compassion fatigue.
Note your sleep and mood patterns through journaling.
Create a daily routine.
Spend time outdoors.
Reduce your workload.
In-home care services can help provide relief to your busy daily schedule. The old saying, “It takes a village,” is the foundation of UJCES. For more information on how our home care agency can help manage compassion fatigue contact us at info@ujces.org or call 212-233-6037.
