Empathy/Compassion Fatigue

Stress, empathy/compassion fatigue, and burnout exist on a spectrum. All professionals experience stress and can learn self-care techniques to dissipate its effects. When stress begins to take a toll, we move into a state of depletion called empathy/compassion fatigue. This class is designed to help you identify and understand the difference between pity, empathy and compassion and mindfully use self-regulation practices to build resilience and inner resources. These practices will help you re-energize yourself so you can “be your best” for your students, clients, and family.  You will also learn how to integrate your mind and body to promote a “state of flow” and a sense of physical, emotional, and psychological well-being.  Concepts that will be reviewed and discussed include self-compassion, active hope, mindfulness, brain anatomy, homeostasis, breath-work, the four basic mindsets, co-regulation, the power of intention, and “Ten Ways to Find True Happiness.”  Case studies with helpful suggestions and classroom activities for enhanced learning will also be discussed.