In this training, presented by Dr. Sheri Gibson, professionals will learn the distinct differences between sympathy, empathy, and compassion; as well as the differences between compassion fatigue, burnout, and vicarious trauma. Training attendees will learn the external and internal factors that increase one’s risk for compassion fatigue and the common associated warning signs. Dr. Gibson will share formal measures used to assess compassion fatigue among caregivers and professionals within organizations and agencies and offer tips for prevention including self-awareness, self-care, and self-regulation techniques toward the goal of better serving our aging community members and their families.

Professionals may develop negative and cynical attitudes towards those they are trying to help. 

According to the Alzheimer’s Association there are “10 Symptoms of Caregiver Stress”:

Burnout Self-Test-Do You Exhibit These 20 Signs of Work Burnout?
Answer 20 questions “based on the typical warning signs of burnout. The more yes answers, the greater chances you are experiencing the condition. www.choosehelp.com. Go to Topics, Stress & Burnout.

Where Do You Fall on the Burnout Continuum…
www.psychologytoday.com

Alzheimer’s Association
www.alz.org

Denver Regional Council of Governments DRCOG.
www.drcog.networkofcare.org
Select Caregiver Support

Each of us have gravitated to the helping professions for a multitude of reasons.

Some professionals may be more likely to burnout than others, depending on factors in the work place, with personal issues and other situations. Causes may not be easily recognized.

Reserve one day for yourself and do what you want. You can do this by taking your loved one to an adult day care or asking someone you trust to stay with them. Take care of your mental and physical health. Get regular checkups, cook healthy meals, get enough sleep. Find support opportunities to help you feel less alone, to vent, and listen to other caregivers experiences. Support can be found in churches, community agencies providing services, support hotlines and groups.