Known as the “cost of caring,” compassion fatigue is a natural consequence inherent in many helping professions, such as animal welfare workers, law enforcement, firefighters, therapists, health care workers, and all others in helping or caregiving roles.
Symptoms of Compassion Fatigue
- Depression or feeling sad
- Insomnia (trouble falling or staying asleep)
- Frequent nightmares or flashbacks
- Fatigue or low energy
- Anger or irritability
- Grief
- Withdrawing from others
- Feeling of isolation
- Loss of appetite or overeating
- Loss of interest in things
- Lack of motivation
- Relationship conflicts (personal and/or professional)
- Feelings of guilt
- Feelings of emptiness
- Anxiety
- Low self-esteem
- Feeling numb or apathetic
- Work problems (often late, lots of sick days, etc.)
- Poor concentration
- Bodily complaints such as headaches or sore muscles
- Intrusive thoughts
- Feeling hopeless
- Unhelpful coping skills, such as substance abuse
- Negative worldview or outlook on life
- Suicidal thoughts
Compassion Fatigue Book
To Save a Starfish: A Compassion Fatigue Workbook for the Animal Welfare Warrior by Jennifer Blough, LPC, Deepwater Counseling onwer.
To Save a Starfish is a self-care workbook designed to help you recognize the symptoms and warning signs of compassion fatigue and burnout. You’ll discover practical and proven strategies to reduce anxiety, control anger, ward off depression, manage stress, and improve your overall well-being. Not only will you learn techniques on how to conquer compassion fatigue, but also how to cultivate compassion satisfaction – the key to staying strong, healthy, and energized so that you can to continue to fight for those who don’t have a voice.
Who Is This Book For?
Shelter staff, animal control officers, veterinarians, vet techs, euthanasia techs, rescue workers, foster parents, management, support staff, wildlife rehabilitators, volunteers, animal advocates, ethical vegetarians and vegans, animal rights activists, animal attorneys, and anyone else involved with the care and protection of animals.
“Such a needed publication! This is a highly accessible workbook to help the many people silently suffering with the very real compassion fatigue.” – Amazon Review
“One of the most comprehensive book out there, on COMPASSION FATIGUE among animal welfare workers. Two thumbs up!” – Amazon Review
“This is a must read for animal advocates, professionals, volunteers, and then ones caring for animals. The raw truth, the science, and very helpful advice. Highly recommended.” – Amazon Review
Purchase Now from Amazon.com
To Save a Starfish: A Compassion Fatigue Workbook for the Animal Welfare Warrior