THE ACADEMY IS CELEBRATING ITS 25TH ANNIVERSARY

Risk of Compassion Fatigue

Compassion fatigue, also called “vicarious traumatization” or secondary traumatization (Figley, 1995), is defined as the emotional residue or strain of exposure to working with those suffering from the consequences of traumatic events. It differs from burn-out but can co-exist with burn-out. Compassion Fatigue can occur due to exposure on one case or can be due to a “cumulative” level of trauma (The American Institute of Stress).

As written in the Green Cross Academy of Traumatology guidelines, trauma work requires more than desire and training.  It is crucial that those caring for and addressing the traumatic responses of others care for themselves.  The most experienced and knowledgeable of caregivers are vulnerable to the emotional strain know as compassion fatigue.  Caregivers need to be mindful of the symptoms of compassion fatigue and understand their own emotional vulnerabilities when working with victims of traumatic stress and crisis situations. Caregiver needs to be aware of all components of compassion fatigue, that is the cognitive, emotional, behavioral, physical and spiritual.  Not monitoring one’s self in any of these domains can increase the risk of compassion fatigue (Green Cross Academy of Traumatology).

Green Cross Academy of Traumatology (GCAT) requires that those who are volunteering to deploy complete the Compassion Fatigue Self-Test and/or have an interview with a GCAT Compassion Fatigue Specialist prior to deployment.  The Compassion Fatigue Self-Test can be downloaded by clicking here.

THE MISSION OF THE ACADEMY

  • INCREASE AWARENESS

    Increase Awareness of Effects of Traumatic Events and Crisis Situations on Human Functioning  

  • LOOK BEYOND PHYSICAL NEEDS

    Enable Professionals to Look Beyond Physical and Safety Needs and also Address Emergent Psychological Needs

  • ESTABLISH STANDARDS

    Improve the Quality of Support and Intervention and Establish Meaningful Standards Among Professionals Across Disciplines

  • TRAINING AND EDUCATION

    Provide Information and Training through it’s Educational Resource Center and Premier Speakers Bureau

  • SUrVIVOR TO THRIVER

    Ultimately to Assist Victims to Become Survivors and then Thrivers