Do you find yourself helping other people in difficult situations, such as taking care of a family member, or  someone recovering from an accident? As you might know, helping others can, over time, cause feelings of helplessness, anxiety, anger and irritability. This response is known as “compassion fatigue” and it is quite common among family caregivers, social workers, psychologists and counselors.

Without treatment, compassion fatigue can lead to exhaustion and long-term mental health problems (e.g., depression).  If you, or someone you know, works with victims of traumatic events, then you can take steps to minimize the incidence of these effects. Continue reading →