DECYDE

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. While it is often associated with healthcare workers, teachers also experience empathic strain as a result of their emotional commitment to their work and the profound connections they establish with students.

 

By identifying the early warning signs, adopting effective coping techniques, and nurturing a supportive atmosphere, educators can maintain the delivery of excellent education while also prioritizing their own wellness. 

Updated: 2024

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.