Cognitive, emotional, physical, and behavioral stress-related symptoms and coping strategies among university students during the third wave of COVID-19 pandemic
Compassion Fatigue Vs. Vicarious Trauma: What's The Difference?
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In professions requiring emotional investment and exposure to others' struggles, terms like compassion fatigue and vicarious trauma often come up. While these conditions share some similarities, they stem from different experiences and affect individuals in unique ways. Understanding the distinction between compassion fatigue and vicarious trauma is essential for recognizing the signs of each and implementing effective coping strategies.
Understanding Compassion FatigueCompassion fatigue is a condition that arises when caregivers, such as health care workers, therapists, or social workers, become emotionally and physically drained by constant exposure to others' pain and suffering.1 It's often described as the "cost of caring" because it stems from a deep empathy for others' struggles.
Key characteristics include:
Empathy is a cornerstone of caregiving and working with people, as it allows you to connect deeply with those in need and offer meaningful support.3 However, when empathy is overextended, it can become overwhelming, leaving you emotionally exhausted. This "too much of a good thing" aspect often leads to compassion fatigue.
Over time, compassion fatigue can impact personal relationships as caregivers may struggle to maintain boundaries or feel too drained to engage meaningfully with loved ones. If left unchecked, it can lead to chronic stress or even burnout, making it essential to prioritize self-care and seek professional support when needed.
Understanding Vicarious TraumaVicarious trauma occurs when someone is indirectly exposed to trauma by hearing about or witnessing another person's traumatic experiences. This condition often affects those in professions like counseling, emergency response, or journalism, where they repeatedly encounter distressing stories.
Key characteristics include:
Vicarious trauma can also affect the person's relationships and sense of self. Individuals might find themselves withdrawing from others, feeling detached or doubting their ability to make a positive impact. This condition can have long-term consequences if not addressed.
Compassion Fatigue vs. Vicarious Trauma: Differences and OverlapsWhile compassion fatigue and vicarious trauma share similarities, they differ significantly in their origins and effects. Compassion fatigue is primarily tied to the emotional exhaustion of caregiving, where the focus is on the toll of empathizing deeply with others' suffering.1 In contrast, vicarious trauma stems from indirect exposure to graphic or distressing accounts of trauma, often changing a person's worldview, increasing cynicism and a sense of danger.4
Compassion Fatigue Essential Reads
Another key distinction lies in how each condition manifests. Compassion fatigue typically revolves around feelings of being overwhelmed or unable to continue offering support, whereas vicarious trauma often involves intrusive thoughts or vivid imagery related to someone else's trauma. Despite these differences, the two conditions can overlap, particularly for professionals in caregiving roles who are exposed to both emotional exhaustion and traumatic content.
How to Manage Compassion Fatigue and Vicarious TraumaManaging compassion fatigue and vicarious trauma involves proactive strategies prioritizing self-care, emotional support, and professional development. While both conditions stem from different sources, their management overlaps, focusing on building resilience and maintaining mental well-being.
Self-Care PracticesTaking care of your physical and emotional well-being is essential in managing both conditions. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and sufficient sleep help the body recover from stress. Engaging in mindfulness practices, such as meditation or yoga, can promote relaxation and emotional resilience.1
Setting aside time for hobbies or personal interests unrelated to caregiving or trauma exposure can also provide a much-needed mental break.
Professional SupportTherapy or counseling can be incredibly beneficial for those struggling with the emotional toll of these conditions. Speaking with a mental health professional offers a safe space to process overwhelming feelings and develop personalized coping strategies.5
Participating in supervision or debriefing sessions at work can also help caregivers and professionals discuss difficult cases, gain perspective, and feel supported. Attending training or workshops on compassion fatigue and trauma-informed care can further enhance coping skills.
Healthy BoundariesCreating clear boundaries between work and personal life is crucial. Limiting work hours and saying no to additional responsibilities when feeling overwhelmed can reduce stress. Emotional boundaries are equally important—learning to empathize without fully internalizing others' pain maintains emotional balance. Enforcing these boundaries allows individuals to offer meaningful support without compromising their well-being.4
Support NetworkSurrounding yourself with a supportive community can make a significant difference. Colleagues, friends, or family members who understand the challenges of caregiving or trauma-focused work can provide emotional validation and reduce feelings of isolation. Joining peer support groups also allows for sharing experiences and discovering new coping mechanisms.4
Organizational SupportWorkplaces play a key role in helping employees manage compassion fatigue and vicarious trauma. Organizations can foster a culture of mental health awareness by offering access to Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), flexible schedules, and stress management resources. Regular training sessions and opportunities to address emotional well-being can empower individuals to handle the demands of their roles effectively.
Moving Forward With Awareness and ResilienceCompassion fatigue and vicarious trauma are distinct but interconnected challenges that deeply impact those working in caregiving and trauma-heavy professions. By understanding the distinctions and commonalities, you can develop healthier coping mechanisms and seek the support you need.
To find a therapist near you, visit the Psychology Today Therapy Directory.
Vikrant Massey Not Retiring, Says 'Just Burned Out': Understanding Work Burnout And 5 Tips To Overcome It
"I'm not retiring… Just burned out. Need a long break. Miss home and health is also acting up… People misread it," Vikrant said. He had previously written on social media, "The last few years and beyond have been phenomenal… But as I move forward, I realize it's time to recalibrate and go back home. As a Husband, Father & a Son. And also as an Actor. So, coming 2025, we would meet each other for one last time. Until time deems right."
The heartfelt message raised questions about his future, with many speculating about a possible PR stunt tied to his upcoming film Zero Se Restart.
What is Work Burnout?Vikrant Massey's admission of burnout resonates with many professionals, especially those in high-pressure jobs. Work burnout is a condition caused by prolonged periods of stress and overwork, which can lead to emotional exhaustion, detachment from work, and a decline in performance. It's not just about being tired; burnout often involves feeling drained and disconnected from your responsibilities, both professionally and personally.
Dr Samir Parikh, Director of Mental Health and Behavioural Sciences at Fortis Healthcare, Delhi, provides critical insights into work burnout's complex landscape.
"Work burnout is a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by excessive and prolonged stress," explains Dr Parikh. "It occurs when an individual experiences overwhelming professional demands that exceed their ability to cope, leading to a profound sense of disengagement and emotional depletion."
"It's the result of chronic stress in the workplace, leading to feelings of helplessness and fatigue. People who experience burnout often show signs of emotional exhaustion, reduced performance, and a sense of detachment," he says. Massey's own experience reflects the toll that continuous work without adequate breaks can take on one's mental and physical health.
For someone like Vikrant Massey, who juggles a busy schedule in Bollywood, the pressure to constantly perform at a high level can contribute to burnout. The entertainment industry, in particular, demands long hours and intense dedication, leaving little room for personal time and rest. Massey's admission highlights how even celebrities are not immune to the effects of burnout, even when their careers appear to be thriving.
While taking breaks is important, it isn't always feasible for everyone. So, how can you combat burnout, especially if you're unable to step away from work for an extended period? Here are five expert tips to help manage and overcome burnout:
Recognising Personal LimitsDr Parikh highlights that understanding early signs of emotional fatigue is essential for preventing burnout. Recognising these symptoms allows professionals to address stress proactively before it leads to emotional shutdown.
Establishing Professional Boundaries for Mental WellnessCreating clear boundaries between work and personal life is crucial to mental health. Dr Parikh advises setting realistic work expectations, delegating tasks effectively, and prioritising self-care. Consistent communication and intentional separation from work responsibilities help maintain mental energy and reduce stress.
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Holistic Self-CareDr Parikh advocates for holistic self-care, which includes regular physical exercise, balanced nutrition, consistent sleep hygiene, mindfulness, and mental health check-ups. This multidimensional approach strengthens resilience against workplace stress and supports overall well-being.
Professional counselling offers tailored strategies to manage stress and build emotional resilience. Dr Parikh suggests that seeking help from mental health experts can provide personalised techniques for coping with workplace challenges and developing long-term mental health plans.
Lifestyle RecalibrationDr Parikh recommends making small, sustainable lifestyle changes to manage work-related stress effectively. This includes reassessing professional goals, exploring advanced stress management techniques, and aligning work demands with personal well-being to prevent recurring burnout.
"Work burnout is not a sign of weakness, but a complex psychological response to prolonged professional stress," explains Dr Parikh. "By understanding its nuanced nature and implementing strategic interventions, professionals can rebuild their mental resilience and rediscover workplace satisfaction."
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Australia's Teachers Face Growing 'compassion Fatigue' – Study
As well as facilitators and guides of their students' learning, teachers are also often a lifeline for young people facing social and emotional challenges.
Perhaps the starkest example of this was seen during the Covid-19 pandemic, when educators – already overwhelmed with the intense pressures of their job – were also managing a sharp rise in mental health issues among the young people they were teaching.
However, the commitment and resilience demonstrated by Australia's teachers during this extraordinary once-in-a-century event has come at a big cost.
A 2023 survey of 1,612 Australian teachers by researchers from the University of Queensland investigated how 'compassion fatigue' – a condition which involves a reduced ability to empathise with others — can develop when people face ongoing emotional and psychological strain.
Glenys Oberg, a PhD candidate in education and trauma from The University of Queensland, led the study. She says Australian research has highlighted how compassion fatigue, burnout and Secondary Traumatic Stress (STS) are significant factors pushing teachers out of the profession.
"These issues don't just impact teachers they also affect students," Oberg wrote in an article recently published in The Conversation. "When teachers are highly stressed, research shows students are more likely to behave poorly in the classroom and record lower academic performance."
The study found a staggering 73.9% of respondents had moderate-to-high levels of burnout when compared to the general population, while 71.5% exhibited signs of STS.
"These results align with findings from other research. For example, a 2024 study on Victorian teachers reported similar rates," Oberg noted.
"While additional research is needed to fully understand the scope of this problem in different types of schools and different locations, these findings suggest compassion fatigue and related issues are affecting a significant proportion of Australian teachers."
'Extreme and very real'Teachers who had compassion fatigue, spoke about how their emotional state was deeply influenced by the emotional needs and behaviours of their students.
One teacher reported: "The students that I am caring for at the moment are a very hard cohort. My compassion fatigue is extreme and very real at the moment. I am exhausted."
Another teacher noted how they could gauge how the day would go, based on the mood of their students.
"When they're struggling, I find it hard to keep my own emotions in check," they said.
One teacher explained the difficulty of managing student behaviour while dealing with emotional exhaustion, saying: "When behaviour blows up, which it does several times a day, I just don't know if I have the energy to respond compassionately."
'It's frustrating'Teachers also described a tension between providing emotional support to students and needing to teach the required curriculum and meet administrative responsibilities.
"It's frustrating knowing what the students need emotionally, but the curriculum and administrative demands don't leave room for that kind of support," one teacher said.
Oberg said this also reflects a broader issue for teachers.
"Teachers increasingly note how the pressure to constantly provide data about what they are doing limits their ability to focus on their students in general."
'Impossible to switch off'Because of the intensity of the issues they encounter, teachers find it difficult to leave their work at work, Oberg said.
She recalled how one interviewee revealed: "The emotional load from school often follows me home. I find it hard to stop thinking about my students, even when I'm supposed to be relaxing."
Some teachers also feel like they should not be relaxing (out-of-hours) when their students need help.
"It's hard to focus on self-care when I know my students are struggling. I feel guilty taking time for myself when I should be helping them."
What can be done to helpOberg's research found that supporting teachers who experience compassion fatigue requires a combination of trauma-informed training, mental health support, and systemic changes.
Oberg said that recognising and mitigating compassion fatigue is vital for preserving the resilience of educators.
"Understanding the toll of compassion fatigue and supporting teachers' wellbeing ensures they can continue providing essential care and guidance to students."
'Education is no longer about literacy and numeracy'Another recent study, conducted by Dr Adam Fraser and Dr John Molineux from Deakin University, revealed the significant toll of Secondary Traumatic Stress specifically on school staff, with over half experiencing depression and 37% contemplating leaving the profession.
The researchers found 16% of school staff often feel depressed and many documenting distressing experiences that threaten their professional and personal resilience. Unfortunately, such experiences are at crisis level in Australian schools.
A nationwide survey from the Australian Catholic University reveals more than 80% of Australian principals have experienced critical incidents in their schools, including violent security threats, mental health crises, suicide attempts and medical emergencies.
Meanwhile, Australia's high school teachers are topping the charts in taking sick leave as stress and burnout hits record levels.
Dr Fraser said if the impact of STS on educators is to be alleviated, the first thing systems must do is "acknowledge that it is an actual problem and engage in the narrative."
"Some systems did not want to engage in the discussion," Dr Fraser told The Educator. "Secondly, systems need to recognise that education has evolved dramatically; it is no longer simply about literacy and numeracy."
For many students, the school is the only stable and functional environment they ever interact with, Dr Fraser noted.
"We can no longer measure the success of a school by NAPLAN or HSC scores. For many schools, these numbers are not an accurate indication of their achievement," he said. "Also, second hand trauma combined with high workloads really drives burnout."
Dr Fraser said systems have to get serious about reducing workloads that take educators away from getting better student outcomes and have systems and processes that streamline workflow.
"Finally, support and encourage principals and staff to focus on practices that help them process and recover from secondary trauma, by giving them training that targets this very serious challenge."
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