Compassion fatigue, distinct from burnout which develops gradually under the weight of caregiving stress, manifests suddenly. It involves a depletion of one's capacity to empathise and show compassion, even towards the person being cared for. This emotional exhaustion is triggered by the intense stress stemming from connecting with and understanding the suffering and trauma experienced by those under one's care.
While predominantly researched in healthcare professionals, compassion fatigue is also prevalent among caregivers.
