Ways to Avoid Compassion Fatigue

Need some guidance on how to manage your compassion energy?

• Have a manageable patient load, know and set boundaries and limits.
• Use as many “others” as possible in my work with patients, work as a team.
• Take a “Mental Health Day” when needed.
• Laugh, joke, have time to unwind.
• Have a holistic approach to taking care of myself – mind, body, feelings spirituality. Let go, do not allow stress or take on others’ stress, reduce anxiety, recognize choices.
• Have an understanding supervisor.
• Have supervision with supervisor and peers.
• Get and give feedback with supervisor and peers.
• Read materials and go to workshops and training seminars related to compassion fatigue.
• Be assertive with feelings and concerns.
• Let people know my limits.
• Process, talk things out. Talk to a health care professional if needed.
• Have a safe work environment.
• Stay organized.

Shireen Motara is an African Feminist, Certified Coach and Founder CEO of Tara Transform and The Next Chapter.