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Abstract This article explores the history, causes, treatments and prevention of compassion fatigue (the negative effects of helping others), contextualized for application to the trauma recovery efforts from the events of September 11, 2001. The author draws upon experience with development and implementation of the Accelerated Recovery Program for Compassion Fatigue, the Certified Compassion Fatigue Specialist Training, and the provision of treatment and training to hundreds of caregivers suffering from compassion fatigue symptoms. A model for understanding the multiple causes of compassion fatigue is presented, along with distillation of the active ingredients for effective treatment and prevention of its symptoms. Symptoms of compassion fatigue are conceptualized not only as disruptive and deleterious effects of caring for the traumatized, but also as a catalyst for positive change, transformation, maturation, and resiliency in the lives of these caregivers. Specific suggestions for compassion fatigue prevention and resiliency are reviewed.
J. Eric Gentry (Sat,) studied this question.