DECYDE

Empathic Strain

Empathic strain is a term used to describe the emotional and physical exhaustion experienced by individuals who provide care and support to others, particularly in high-stress and emotionally demanding professions. It’s important to identify the early warning signs, adopt effective coping techniques, nurture a supportive atmosphere and prioritize self-care. 

Published: 2023 

External Resources

The Cundill Centre for Child and Youth Depression at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health has developed a toolkit for compassion fatigue (empathic strain). Within this toolkit, you can find: 

  • Definition of compassion fatigue 
  • How to self-assess for compassion fatigue
  • Strategies for seeking help if you are experiencing compassion fatigue

You can access the toolkit here.