Compassion Fatigue may also be known as vicarious or secondary trauma. It often impacts those who work in helping professions, assisting individuals who are experiencing trauma in some form. As lawyers, we may work with clients who are going through tough times in their lives. Over time, exposure to the trauma of others can interfere with one’s sense of well-being.
According to the Canadian Medical Association, compassion fatigue is present in several ways, including:
- Feelings of helplessness and powerlessness when working with a suffering client.
- Reduced feelings of empathy and sensitivity.
- Feeling overwhelmed and exhausted by work demands.
- Feeling emotionally detached.
- Loss of interest in activities you generally enjoy.
- Increased anxiety, sadness, anger, and irritability.
- Difficulty concentrating and making decisions.
- Difficulty sleeping and nightmares.
- Headaches, nausea, upset stomach and dizziness.
- Increased conflict in personal relationships.
- Neglecting self-care.
- Withdrawal and self-isolation.
- Increased substance use.
Although compassion fatigue is most often associated with those working in health care professions, a U.S. study showed that lawyers in the U.S. are five times more likely to experience compassion fatigue than other professionals. Further, a Canadian study showed that almost 2/3 of Canadian Judges have compassion fatigue.
Those very dedicated to their work, perfectionists, workaholics, and idealists, tend to be at a higher risk of compassion fatigue.
There are many ways to combat compassion fatigue while still practicing law. Notably, mindfulness practices such as bringing awareness to your thoughts, feelings, and physical sensations, focusing on your breath, and slowing down your breathing rate are known to help. One must also focus on having reasonable expectations for themselves. Furthermore, a robust social network and a commitment to a self-care routine can also be very helpful in preventing compassion fatigue. It can also be beneficial to ensure that one is engaged in activities and hobbies outside of work.
Compassion fatigue differs from burnout in that burnout is caused by prolonged stress from an overwhelming workload, resulting in mental and physical exhaustion. Compassion fatigue includes burnout along with a shift in worldview. Burnout is related to workload, while compassion fatigue is related to working with clients.
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