Feeling Numb? Let’s Talk About Compassion Fatigue in Nursing
You became a nurse because you care deeply about people and want to help them heal. But what happens when that caring starts to feel like… nothing?
If you’ve ever found yourself emotionally checked out, drained by the thought of another shift, or struggling to feel the same empathy you once did — you might be facing compassion fatigue.
And you’re not alone.
What Is Compassion Fatigue?
Compassion fatigue is a type of emotional exhaustion that comes from constantly caring for others, especially in high-stress or trauma-heavy environments like nursing.
It’s similar to burnout but not exactly the same. Burnout often involves physical and mental exhaustion from overwork, while compassion fatigue is rooted more in emotional depletion. It can include feelings of detachment, numbness, or even guilt for not feeling as deeply as you used to.
What Causes Compassion Fatigue?
For nurses, compassion fatigue often stems from:
High emotional demands: such as comforting grieving families, witnessing patient suffering, or managing long-term care.
Workplace stress: including long shifts, short staffing, low pay, and limited organizational support.
Personal pressures: like juggling family caregiving responsibilities, financial strain, or a history of trauma.
Many nurses try to “push through,” but ignoring these stressors can lead to worsening symptoms and long-term effects on both your health and your career.
Signs You Might Be Experiencing Compassion Fatigue
Recognizing the signs is key to managing it. This is more than just “having a bad week at work” — but it can often be brushed off as that.
Common symptoms of compassion fatigue include:
Feeling emotionally disconnected from patients, including a noticeable lack of empathy
Increased irritability, anxiety, or mood swings
Trouble sleeping or constant fatigue
Loss of purpose or job satisfaction
Physical symptoms like headaches or digestive issues
Avoiding social interaction or isolating from loved ones
Feeling like you’re just running on autopilot each day
Addictive (or escapist) behaviors like drinking alcohol more often, gambling, or overworking
If left unaddressed, compassion fatigue can seriously impact your mental and physical health, the quality of care you provide, and your desire to stay in the nursing profession.
How to Manage Compassion Fatigue
Here’s where to start:
Prioritize rest and recovery: Make sleep a priority. Take breaks at work—even if they are just a series of mini-breaks. Remember you are a human, not a robot.
Set Boundaries at Work & Home: Boundaries are essential. Say no to unnecessary overtime or requests that drain your energy. Carve out some time for yourself on your days off instead of filling your days with tasks.
Find outlets that refill your cup: Whether it’s journaling, hiking, or spending time with friends, doing things just for you helps you reset and recharge for the next work week.
Seek support: Talk to trusted colleagues, join a Nurses support group, or work with a coach or therapist who understands the challenges of nursing. I’ve got some helpful options listed below.
Final Thoughts: You Still Care — You're Just Exhausted
Compassion fatigue doesn’t mean you don’t care. It means you’ve cared deeply, consistently, and often without enough support. But you deserve to feel supported, too.
If this post hits home, maybe it’s time for a reset. Start with some simple self-care practices. I have 5 Daily Self-Care Habits linked in this blog.
Take a deeper step by joining our Free Self-Care by Nurses for Nurses Facebook Group.
Or book a free 30-minute clarity call and let’s talk through what you’re carrying.
Because your well-being matters — just as much as your patients’.
