Caregiver compassion fatigue

A half-day workshop that builds foundational knowledge and allows for the opportunity to discuss and practice
  • Half-day
  • Workshop
  • Employees and People Leaders

Description

Professionals, including doctors, nurses, social workers, and staff who work in the world of hospitals, long-term care services or any helping profession are often assumed to be tough, energetic, high-spirited, and unaffected by the daily exposure to trauma that comes along as just part of the job.

At their core, they are no different than the rest of the world. This dynamic and interactive workshop is essential for every helping professional to understand how they can be affected by the events that surround them and manage as best as possible with the risk of fatigue from their work.

Workplace Impact

  • Encourages team members to feel ‘safe’ sharing stories and exploring their personal experiences.
  • Strengthens peer relationships in helping to identify signs of vicarious trauma in oneself and others.
  • Supports the development of strategies to initiate recovery programs.
  • Reminds employees of the support programs already in place to sustain engagement and high performance in their role.

Structure

Delivered as 3-3.5 hour instructor-led workshop for employees and people leaders.

This workshop begins with participants sharing their personal stories about caring and being a caregiver. A brief discussion on stress will lead to defining “crisis” work. Participants will learn the distinguishing components of a trauma and explore vicarious trauma; what it is, who experiences it, and the impact it can have.

The group will brainstorm factors – personal, situational and professional – that can influence compassion fatigue. Symptoms of compassion fatigue will be identified through an interactive exercise. The group will then discuss the range of impacts on the body, mind and spirit. Stages of burnout and recovery will lead participants through the hierarchy of needs for recovery. Next, participants will share the impact that their experiences have on their family.

The workshop closes with practical self care tips to encourage recovery and resiliency at work and home.