In most cases, health care workers suffering from this disorder often transfer their work problems to their families. In a study to examine the severity of this condition on various types of caregivers in the health care industry, more than 90% of the respondents admitted to having a difficult family life due to challenges at work (Mathieu, 2012).

This disorder was first identified among health care professionals in the mid 20th Century. The affected professionals showed numerous signs and symptoms. Some of the most notable symptoms among caregivers include high vulnerability to illness, anger, and irritability. Others include absenteeism from work, attrition, emotional drain, and depression (Mathieu, 2012).Combating Compassion Fatigue Assignment

Over the years, numerous concepts have been developed in regard to this disorder, the nature of its associated problems, and the best coping strategies for caregivers who are diagnosed with the condition.

Experts argue that several factors such as the character of a patient, the nature of the patient’s condition, as well as the physical and mental states of a caregiver can contribute to the development of this disorder (McLain, 2008). In most cases, neglect by the caregiver over the condition of his or her physical and mental state is the main causative factor. Professionals working in the health care industry should have a high degree of self awareness that allows them to know when a break or change in routine is necessary.

Physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of the caregiver

Studies have established that caregivers in the health care industry have certain needs that need to be met in order to avoid suffering from this disorder. Experts argue that meeting those needs helps to reduce the vulnerability of health care professionals to the effects of the same trauma experienced by their patients (Figley, 2013).

Some of the physical needs of caregivers include regular exercise, changing their workplace environment on a regular basis, team building events with colleagues, participating in sport activities, and taking nature walks.

Experts argue that physical engagements for caregivers play a crucial role in distracting their minds from the trauma stories they handle on a daily basis. In addition, physical activities help caregivers to have body fitness that is essential in managing stress and fatigue. Emotional needs for caregivers include counseling, good workplace relations, constant laughter, focus groups, and regular exercise (Reese, 2008).

Experts argue that caregivers need to have colleagues who understand and treat them well. This also includes having colleagues who can make them laugh and offer constant encouragement, especially when they are dealing with special patients. Focus or peer groups also help caregivers because they provide an opportunity to share experiences, as well as getting advice and encouragement (Figley, 2013).Combating Compassion Fatigue Assignment

Counseling is also crucial for caregivers because it helps them in managing the effects of work related stress. Some of the spiritual needs of caregivers include having a connection between the body, mind, and the spirit. Health care professionals need to build their spirituality, which helps to give a transcendent meaning to life (McLain, 2008). Experts argue that caregivers can only attend to their patients effectively if they know the value of life and show concern towards sacred matters.

Coping strategies and resources for caregivers

Experts argue that caregivers should have a good sense of self awareness in order to combat compassion fatigue (Reese, 2008). Caregivers can apply a number of strategies in order to address combat fatigue. First, they can do a lot of exercise as a way of increasing productivity and achieving fitness. The exercise gives caregivers crucial mental and physical benefits that are essential for doing their work. Second, caregivers should try to have a personal life that is different from their professional work (Figley, 2013).

Experts argue that having a personal life is crucial for caregivers because it helps them to have different experiences that can relieve the distress suffered in the workplace. Having limits between work and family related activities is crucial for caregivers. Other coping strategies that caregivers can use to combat compassion fatigue include developing a sense of humor, as well as creating broad professional and social networks (Reese, 2008).Combating Compassion Fatigue Assignment

References

Figley, C. R. (2013). Compassion Fatigue: Coping with Secondary Traumatic Stress Disorder in those who treat the Traumatized. New Jersey: Routledge.

Gail, L. (2004). Compassion: The Culture and Politics of an Emotion. California: Psychological Press.

Mathieu, F. (2012). The Compassion Fatigue Workbook: Creative Tools for Transforming Compassion Fatigue and Vicarious. New Jersey: Routledge.

McLain, K. B. (2008). The Impact of Burnout, Compassion Fatigue, and Compassion Satisfaction on Foster Parenting. New York: Pro Quest.

Reese, M. (2008). Compassion Fatigue and Spirituality with Emergency Health Care Providers. New York: Pro Quest.Combating Compassion Fatigue Assignment