Balancing Empathy: Managing Compassion Fatigue in Troubled Times
Episode Overview
Compassion fatigue is a real psychological experience caused by constant exposure to traumatic stories and images Signs of compassion fatigue include mood swings, emotional detachment, anxiety and depression, low productivity, insomnia, appetite and digestion changes, and physical symptoms like headaches and tension To beat compassion fatigue, it's crucial to take temporary steps back, incorporate self-care, and create a compartmentalization plan Maintaining a balance between engagement and self-rejuvenation is essential for being an effective ally and engaged global citizen Ebi Johnson offers one-on-one coaching sessions and resources for those interested in working with her
The goal is to find the balance. There has to be a balance. You have to create both a door and a window for yourself so that when you step back and take that distance to rest, to recharge, you can still watch the battle and make sure you're informed and engaged from a distance.
Feeling overwhelmed by the endless stream of distressing news? You're not alone. In this episode, E.B. Johnson dives into the very real issue of compassion fatigue, a condition that can leave you emotionally drained from constant exposure to traumatic events. With the world seemingly in perpetual turmoil, it's easy to feel both compelled to stay informed and simultaneously burnt out by the weight of it all.
Johnson breaks down what compassion fatigue looks like—think emotional exhaustion, detachment, and even physical symptoms like headaches or insomnia. She doesn't just stop at identifying the problem; she offers practical solutions for finding that crucial balance between staying engaged and taking care of your own mental health. From setting boundaries on media consumption to prioritizing self-care rituals, Johnson provides a roadmap for navigating these challenging times without losing yourself in the process.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone feeling the strain of global events but unsure how to manage their emotional well-being while staying informed.