What is burnout?​​

Burnout is described by the World Health Organisation as a syndrome resulting from chronic workplace stress that has not been managed. It is characterised by:
 

• Feelings of exhaustion

• Increased mental distance from one's job or feelings of cynicism related to one's job. 

• Reduced professional efficiency.

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Anyone, in any occupational group or industry is at risk of finding themselves on the burnout spectrum, if exposed to chronic (ongoign) work stress. The burnout spectrum ranges from early warning sign to the risk of complete breakdown. ​

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What is compassion fatigue? 

Compassion fatigue is a state of emotional, physical and psychological exhaustion that occurs when someone is repeatedly exposed to the trauma or suffering of others, often in a caring or helping role. Being repeatedly exposed to others' trauma and suffering leads to secondary traumatic stress (STS) or vicarious trauma. Essentially, compassion fatigue is burnout, plus secondary traumatic stress. 

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Professionals like child protection workers, mental health case managers, social workers, teachers, chaplains and residential youth workers who regularly encounter traumatic situations are particularly susceptible. 

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Distinction between Burnout and Compassion Fatigue

While related, burnout is often more focused on work-related stress and overload, while compassion fatigue stems specifically from the emotional impact of dealing with others' trauma.

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Who's responsibility?

Dealing with burnout and Compassion Fatigue is not simply an individual's responsibility (e.g. doing more of this, doing less of that); it is also a workplace responsibility. Human service leaders have a crucial role to play to manage burnout and compassion fatigue in their teams and help their team members thrive.