Have you ever been extremely exhausted that it affects your emotions towards others? I came across a recent article on grammarly.com about compassion fatigue and how to deal with it. It was interesting to read about selflessness in the article.
There’s a common belief that you must look out for yourself before doing the same for others. But what if your attention is immediately needed when you’re emotionally unavailable? How do you create a balance between your mental health and caring for the wellbeing of others, especially loved ones?
This article will discuss compassion fatigue and how to care for others when dealing with compassion fatigue. You can read more about the signs and how to deal with compassion fatigue.
Firstly, According to the chief of psychology for the University of Vermont Health Network, compassion fatigue is “a biological and physiological response where you are so exhausted that you no longer have the personal reserve to feel for other people.” It leads to loss of productivity and mental health issues.
“It’s important to realize when you are in this phase to avoid talking flippantly”.
I’m sure a majority of us have had times that people needed us, but at that moment, we acted like we’ve got ourselves together but, in the end, made unwarranted statements. I can assure you, that’s one of the most awkward situations you can ever find yourself in when dealing with this kind of fatigue.
Related: Self-care tips for mental health.
Empathy takes energy, and you can’t give out what you don’t have; therefore, I will use some of the Thomas-Kilmann Conflict Mode Instrument (TKI) to explain how to show kindness when dealing with compassion fatigue.
Disclaimer: There are five TK conflict management approaches, but I used the four most related approaches to manage compassion fatigue for this post. Additionally, I made the definitions suitable for the post. Therefore, you can check out the full article on Thomas-Kilmann Conflict Mode Instrument if you are interested.
How to care for others when dealing with compassion fatigue.
- Collaboration: This provides short term solutions that involves referring those in need of your time or other things to reliable sources.
2. Avoiding: Avoid making decisions when you feel drained emotionally. There are helpful ways to care for others, such as listening. However, you’ll need to let them know why you may only listen to them for the time being. Close friends and family will understand the avoidance.
3. Accommodating: This short term solution works by sharing. You may not be in the right mood to give any advice but giving or sharing may work best for you and the person in need.
4. Compromise: Again, it’s imperative to let them know how you feel and why you may not be the best person for them to talk to at that time. However, you could assure them that the moment you feel better, you’ll be all ears.
Finally, take a break to focus on yourself when dealing with compassion fatigue.
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