Antoinette Struwig
As a Social Worker, I am currently doing a research project on the existence of Compassion Fatigue in Rural Healthcare, and the effect that assisting others in managing their trauma, has on the therapist - being that a Doctor, Healthcare Worker, Psychologist, Social Worker or Volunteer. Questions asked are: May I say 'no' when someone asks for help? Do I know my own limits? What is the influence of the cumulative transformative effect on the helper of working with survivors of traumatic life events? The truth is that we all are profoundly changed - both positive and negative - by the work we do with survivors of trauma. Trauma professionals often find that they feel less grounded and can't maintain a sense of inner balance. They become intolerant, frustrated, unbearably anxious or chronically unable to experience pleasure. When a helper's ego resources are compromised, s/he is less likely to make decisions that are in his/her own best interest, and may make professional errors in boundaries, judgement, or strategy. Individuals and Organizations must recognize that addressing Compassion Fatigue is part of a reasonable standard of practice for any profession that entails direct service to traumatized clients. The cost of not doing so is immeasurable. The results of this research project, will form the basis of the paper. Intervention strategies to manage this huge problem will be submitted to participants. For me it is of utmost importance to empower each caregiver in this regard, in even the most remote communities worldwide.