3 Indicators of Compassion Fatigue vS Burnout
The Difference Between Compassion Fatigue and Burnout
Support for caregivers, healthcare professionals, and those working with grief and loss
If you work on the front lines of healthcare or in any caregiving role where you encounter suffering and loss daily, your emotional and physical health can take a hit. Over time, this repeated exposure can lead to burnout—but it can also lead to something called compassion fatigue.
While both burnout and compassion fatigue can drain your energy, they are not the same. Understanding the difference is the first step to healing and protecting your well-being.
What Is Compassion Fatigue?
Compassion fatigue is the emotional and spiritual toll of caring for others in pain. It’s common among nurses, therapists, chaplains, social workers, and family caregivers—especially those who have a history of trauma or learned to be “the helper” early in life. Childhood adversity (ACEs) can increase vulnerability to compassion fatigue.
Unlike burnout, which usually builds slowly due to chronic work stress, compassion fatigue can come on quickly and is often tied to your deep empathy and emotional investment in others.
3 Signs of Compassion Fatigue in Caregivers
If you’re noticing any of the following signs, compassion fatigue may be affecting you:
- Chronic exhaustion and sleep disruption
You’re tired all the time, even after rest. Your sleep may be restless, or you may have trouble falling asleep at all. - Emotional outbursts or irritability
Small things set you off. You feel frustration, resentment, or anger more often than usual. - Sadness, apathy, or detachment
You no longer feel joy in caregiving. You may feel numb, helpless, or question your purpose.
How Is Burnout Different from Compassion Fatigue?
Burnout is a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by long-term stress, especially in work environments. It may include cynicism, low motivation, and a decreased sense of accomplishment. Compassion fatigue, by contrast, stems from a relational and emotional overload—too much empathy, not enough replenishment.
Both can overlap and contribute to serious mental health concerns if left unaddressed.
3 Proven Strategies to Cope with Compassion Fatigue
- Practice Daily Self-Care
Prioritize small, consistent moments to care for yourself. This can include mindfulness, walking outdoors, journaling, prayer, or deep breathing. Ask: What do I need right now? - Set Boundaries and Limits
Learning to say no—and meaning it—is essential. Notice where you’re overextending, and practice choosing what’s best for you. - Build New Life Skills and Supports
Compassion fatigue is not a personal failure. It’s a sign that something needs to shift. Consider counseling, join a support group, or take a course to strengthen your coping tools.
You’re Not Alone
At InLight SoulCare, I specialize in helping caregivers and professionals navigate compassion fatigue, grief, and burnout—especially in Saskatchewan and across Ontario. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure of your next steps, you deserve support that’s grounded, empathetic, and empowering.
Let’s talk about what healing can look like for you.
👉 Book a free consult or explore therapy and coaching options today.
Do you like the art above by Susan Seitz? Me too! Visit https://susanseitz.com/ to learn more about this artist from Walkerton Ontario.
