As parents and caregivers of children with trauma histories, you are at an increased risk of experiencing compassion fatigue. Compassion fatigue is stress that results from exposure to individuals who are suffering or dealing with trauma.
Common signs of compassion fatigue include:
- Chronic exhaustion (emotional, physical, or both)
- Feelings of hopelessness and helplessness
- Reduced feelings of empathy or sympathy
- Difficulty sleeping
- Headaches or migraines
- Isolation by avoiding social events
- Lack of interest in previously enjoyable activities
- Feelings of irritability, anger, or anxiety
Symptoms of compassion fatigue can arise quickly and can feel beyond the common level of simply being stressed out. Family members and friends may recognize the early signs of compassion fatigue before you do. There are things you can do when you feel that your compassion is dwindling:
- Consider joining a support group that can provide you with a sense of community and connect you to valuable resources
- Reach out to family and friends to help care for children when you are not at your absolute best. Asking for respite care is a sign of strength, not weakness.
- Participate in self-care activities that fill your emotional bucket and bring peace, comfort, and joy
- Set clear boundaries, and don’t be afraid to say no when feeling overwhelmed. If you overcommit yourself, you will be depleting your emotional resources. To be fully available for your family, you have to make sure you have had the opportunity to recharge and rejuvenate yourself.
- Contact the Wisconsin Family Connections Center and talk with a Resource Specialist for ideas or suggestions on connecting you to needed support and resources in your area.
- If you continue to experience overwhelming feelings, have tried several different options, and are still not experiencing any positive changes, consider reaching out to a counselor or therapist who has expertise in mental wellness.
Recommended Resources:
From the Resource Library
Tip Sheet
Training From Champion Classrooms’
