In this episode, we dive deep into the reality of compassion fatigue, emotional exhaustion, and burnout—especially for caregivers, healthcare workers, and anyone who supports others through mental health struggles. Guest Adelle shares her personal journey of reaching the edge of exhaustion and the difficult lessons learned along the way. Together, we unpack how emotional overextension can lead to burnout, why it happens, and what can be done to create healthy boundaries and sustain hope.

Listeners will walk away with practical strategies for recognizing signs of fatigue, reframing expectations, and cultivating resilience while continuing to support others.

Primary Topics Covered:

Understanding compassion fatigue and emotional exhaustion
The personal cost of helping others without boundaries
Early warning signs of burnout
The role of self-compassion in recovery
Practical coping strategies for caregivers and helpers

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction and Adelle’s story
04:12 What compassion fatigue really feels like
08:37 The emotional toll of constantly caring for others
13:20 Warning signs of burnout caregivers often miss
18:45 How to create healthy boundaries in helping roles
24:10 The importance of self-compassion and forgiveness
29:40 Coping strategies to sustain your mental health
34:55 Final thoughts and resources for support

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Compassion Fatigue and Burnout: Coping Strategies for Caregivers and Helpers