By: Koryn Sheppard
Compassion fatigue—also known as secondary stress reaction, secondhand shock, secondary traumatic stress, or vicarious trauma—refers to the physical, emotional, and psychological toll of helping others experiencing stress or trauma. It often stems from working in high-stress environments. Compassion fatigue fundamentally alters one’s worldview due to repeated exposure to trauma and can result in a blunted or inability to feel compassion.
Burnout, while related, is distinct. It is a cumulative state of emotional and physical exhaustion caused by prolonged stress, dissatisfaction, or powerlessness. Unlike compassion fatigue, burnout does not necessarily reshape one’s worldview or ability to feel compassion.
Lawyers and Judges are commonly affected by compassion fatigue
Though commonly associated with “helping professions like healthcare, law enforcement, and social work, compassion fatigue also significantly impacts attorneys and judges. Lawyers regularly assist clients already in crisis, and the litigation process itself is inherently stressful. A 2003 Pace Law Review study found that the attorneys surveyed exhibited high levels of compassion fatigue and burnout. Similarly, a 2003 survey of 105 judges revealed that 63% experienced symptoms of compassion fatigue. A 2008 Georgetown Immigration Law Journal study found that judges handling asylum cases suffered from significant compassion fatigue and job burnout.
Signs and Symptoms
Compassion fatigue manifests both emotionally and physically. Common signs include:
- Mood & Mental Health: Persistent negativity, cynicism, irritability, anxiety, depression, or detachment
- Cognitive Difficulties: Trouble focusing, memory issues, reduced productivity
- Physical Symptoms: Insomnia, exhaustion, headaches, digestive issues, physical pain
- Behavioral Changes: Withdrawal from social interactions, increased substance use, self-medication
Addressing Compassion Fatigue
The American Bar Association, as well as many state local bar associations have recognized compassion fatigue as a serious issue within the legal profession. Awareness and recognition (mindfulness) are the first steps in dealing with compassion fatigue. Self-care and boundaries can be extremely important in combating compassion fatigue. Finding effective strategies to alter negative worldviews is also important. Strategies may include:
- Practicing Mindfulness & Gratitude: A daily gratitude habit can help reframe negative thoughts.
- Reframing Your Perspective: Challenge persistent negativity and seek optimism.
- Engaging in Positive Activities: Participate in acts of kindness, surround yourself with positive social connections, and engage in activities that bring joy and fulfillment.
- Practicing Self-Compassion: Incorporate daily affirmations and positive self-talk to reinforce a sense of self-worth and resilience.
- Creating Healthy Boundaries & Taking Breaks: Prioritize regular breaks throughout the day, use vacation time to recharge, and set clear boundaries between work and personal life to prevent emotional exhaustion.
In the New York Times best-seller, The Body Keeps the Score, author Dr. Van der Kolk discusses the neurobiological underpinnings of trauma, research findings, case studies, and best practices. One of the main themes in the book is how trauma is stored in our bodies. Dr. Van der Kolk then discusses some of the more promising evidence-based treatments, which include movement-based mindfulness practices (including but not limited to yoga or tai chi). Such practices can be crucial for healing by reconnecting the mind and body, addressing the physical manifestations of trauma, and promoting self-regulation.
Another important aspect of healing, which is fundamental to well-being, Dr. Van der Kolk states, is positive social relationships. He goes on to cover how people recover in the context of relationships, such as within families, community organizations, religious groups, group recovery meetings, etc.
You Are Not Alone
Compassion fatigue doesn’t develop overnight, and recovery will not happen overnight. If self-care strategies aren’t helping, consider seeking professional support. Remember- you are not alone- compassion fatigue is extremely common. But you can come back from it and feel like yourself again.
Wellness Challenge — May 2025
The Wellness Subcommittee is excited to announce the launch of Mindful Movement. This is an all-inclusive, free (although donations are accepted), weekly in-person event open to all SDCBA members. The inaugural event will take place at 8:00 a.m. on Monday, May 5th, and will be offered on a weekly basis each Monday thereafter. It will be held at the Bar Center (330 A Street San Diego, CA 92101) on the roof so members can enjoy the open air and San Diego’s pristine weather. Another benefit for members is the creation of positive social connections, which, as explained above, offers substantial benefits to well-being. Please bring your own water and a mat if you would like to use one. Wear comfortable clothing to allow for unencumbered physical movement.
This is in addition to Mindful Meditation, offered monthly on the second Wednesday at noon. This is a free virtual event, open to all SDCBA members.
The Wellness Subcommittee is equally honored to present May’s educational presentation the “Professional Burnout Roundtable,” hosted by The Law & Medicine, and Wellness Section of the SDCBA. This virtual event will take place on May 7 at 12:00 p.m. We’ll have two (2) licensed healthcare professionals, experts at lifestyle medicine, discussing the health risks of burnout/compassion fatigue and potential solutions.
You can earn “Wellness Wins” for attending each of these events in May 2025.