The Cost of Caring: How To Defeat Compassion Fatigue

The Cost of Caring: How to Defeat Compassion Fatigue April 9, 2016 11:00am – 4:00pm Facilitator: Julie Squires, Rekindle LLC, CCFS Compassion fatigue is the profound exhaustion or depletion that can result when we are repeatedly exposed, directly or indirectly, to another’s pain and suffering. First identified in the early 90’s by oncology nurses, compassion fatigue affects all aspects of those in caregiving and advocacy roles and professions. Whether your work includes animals or people, the ramifications can be damaging. Anxiety, depression, isolation, insomnia, substance abuse, problems with relationships and physical ailments are some of the symptoms that comprise compassion fatigue. We can learn how to manage the emotional aspects of our work and caregiving so we have healthy means by which to cope and can feel the joy and passion that brought us to the work in the first place. Compassion fatigue may be a normal consequence of caring but it does not have to destroy us. Take some time for you and register today! Participant numbers are limited so the experience will be cozy, intimate and safe. In this workshop you will: -meet others that feel like you do -be able to recognize compassion fatigue and burnout -understand the consequences of working, advocating and/or caregiving from a depleted place -learn how compassion satisfaction can be protective -incorporate self-care into your life -learn and practice skills that reduce stress and overwhelm -learn the importance of letting go -become more successful at managing the emotionally challenging situations you are exposed to Who should attend? -healthcare workers -veterinary professionals -animal shelter workers -mental health providers -animal advocates/activists -child advocates -educators -elder care providers -you!   Notes/Materials The workshop fee is $125 and includes lunch, snacks, materials/handouts and sanctuary tour for Homestead overnight guests on Sunday, April 10 @ 10:30 am. It is recommended that you dress in comfortable clothes and bring water to drink. In accordance with our mission, and out of respect to the animals who live here, the Homestead is strictly vegan and non-smoking. Please do not bring any non-vegan food on Sanctuary property. Thank you for your cooperation. Bio Julie Squires is a Certified Compassion Fatigue Educator & Specialist who brings a unique perspective and approach to support the sustained energy and passion of advocates, caregivers and those in helping professions..Julie has more than 20 years of experience within the veterinary field and with leading organizations. She has developed and executed training, workshops, and 1:1 coaching for major companies in the animal health industry. She obtained her certification as a compassion fatigue specialist through the Green Cross Academy of Traumatology and has also completed training from The Figley Institute, TEND Academy and the Traumatology Institute. Julie’s clients also gain from her experience as a certified health and wellness coach and corporate wellness coach. On the weekends you can find Julie guiding tours and loving on the residents of Catskill Animal Sanctuary, which she refers to as her “happy place”. Please contact Homestead Manager Erica at 845-706-3533 to sign up for this workshop AND/OR reserve a room at the Homestead!