Do you have Compassion Fatigue?
Dr. James Aw, Chief Medical Officer, OMERS
January 27, 2025
The population is aging and living longer. As society gets older and the cost of living remains high – the burden of care will increasingly fall on family. I am going through this now with my parents who are in their 80s. They used to be very active but never really bounced back after the pandemic. There are signs of dementia, physical ailments and they are fighting to maintain their independence and dignity. Despite my efforts, it’s like watching a slow-motion disaster. Does this sound familiar?
Compassion fatigue is a result of the emotional pain that comes from the desire to help relieve suffering of others and known as vicarious or secondary trauma. Both burnout and secondary emotional trauma can lead to frustration – and even guilt and distress – if you feel that you cannot rescue or save someone from harm. Healthcare workers but also caregivers (i.e., family members) can suffer from compassion fatigue.
What are the symptoms of compassion fatigue?
According to the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, symptoms of compassion fatigue can include:
feelings of helplessness and powerlessness in the face of patient suffering
reduced feelings of empathy and sensitivity
feeling overwhelmed and exhausted by work demands
feeling detached, numb and emotionally disconnected
loss of interest in activities you used to enjoy
increased anxiety, sadness, anger and irritability.
Tips for Caregivers - What to do you if you're feeling overwhelmed?
According to the National Institute of Aging, some tips to prevent or reduce compassion fatigue include:
Be active and eat well. Find something active that you enjoy. Even short periods of exercise can be beneficial. Enjoy a well-balanced diet and drink plenty of water every day.
Make time to relax and prioritize sleep. Carve out time each week to do something you enjoy that has nothing to do with caregiving. Aim to get seven to nine hours of sleep each night. Try to go to sleep and get up at the same time each day.
Reduce stress. Experiment with relaxation techniques like meditation, tai chi, or yoga. Download a smartphone app, like headversity with guided meditations or relaxing music.
Reach out for support. Talk to a trusted family member or friend or seek counselling from a mental health professional. OMERS and Oxford employees can access our Employee and Family Assistance Program for an array of support. Join an online or in-person support group for caregivers. These are people who will know what you’re going through and may have suggestions or advice.
Be kind to yourself. You don’t have to pretend to be cheerful all the time. Feelings of sadness, frustration and guilt are normal and understandable. Express your feelings by writing in a journal or talking with a friend or counsellor.
Enjoy the good moments
Well-being requires us to have healthy self-care practices and strong social support systems in our personal life and workplace. As my parents are getting older, I am trying to focus on the good and avoid being judgmental and negative. Is it tiring, unpredictable, stressful, and at times frustrating and sad? Yes, but taking care of loved ones is part of the journey of life. We take care of others and one day we will also need help. Being kind, leaning in and social connections are what we will remember in the end. Also be kind to yourself. Enjoy the good moments!