What is compassion fatigue primarily characterized by?

Compassion fatigue is primarily characterized by the absorption of trauma and emotional stresses of others. This phenomenon often affects caregivers, healthcare professionals, and individuals working in helping professions who are regularly exposed to the suffering and distress of others. Over time, this relentless exposure can lead to a diminished capacity to feel compassion, which is a key aspect of the caring relationship.

When a person takes on the emotional burdens of those they are helping, it can create a sense of emotional depletion, as they find themselves internalizing the pain and suffering of others. This does not simply affect their emotional state but also their ability to provide effective support because they may become overwhelmed by the weight of others' traumas.

The other options touch on different aspects of emotional health but do not encapsulate the core of compassion fatigue. Preoccupation with personal trauma pertains more to an individual’s own experiences rather than the emotional impact of others' trauma. Inability to empathize with others could be a symptom of various psychological conditions but does not specifically describe the internal struggle of compassion fatigue. Withdrawal from social interactions can occur in various mental health scenarios, such as depression or anxiety, yet it is not a defining characteristic of compassion fatigue. The essence of compassion fatigue lies in the emotional toll taken from empathizing