How to prevent compassion fatigue?

Since our energy is not unlimited, we will suggest a few ways that can help you conserve it and take care of it in order to prevent compassion fatigue:

First of all, it can be very useful to identify your motivations in your caregiving relationship. Here’s a question that could guide your reflection: why do I stay in this relationship? The answers that emerge from this questioning will inform you about the expectations you have (likely unconscious) in the caregiving relationship. When you become aware of your expectations, you have the power to act on them or simply understand the impact they have on you. For example, if you stay in the caregiving relationship because you want to receive love from the person being cared for, but that person has never really given it to you, you are likely to face much disappointment and frustration. This is entirely legitimate; however, if you desire a more fulfilling relationship with the person being cared for, it would be better to act on what you have control over, which means being flexible with your expectations.

Another approach would be to identify a need that currently exists in your life. Perhaps it is a need for emotional connection, stability, or accomplishment? Once you have identified a need, it is possible to plan concrete and realistic actions to meet it. If the need was related to receiving help, then it would be worthwhile to practice making requests for help. If you would like tools on this topic, feel free to refer to the blog post "how to ask for help".

These suggestions are ways to take care of yourself and thus preserve your energy. If you are interested in delving deeper into these topics, an 8-week training program on burnout prevention is available at GASO.

Additionally, the book "Compassion Fatigue" by Madeleine Fortier is a work that can accompany you in exploring the theme of compassion fatigue among caregivers.