Sometimes, caring too much hurts. When caregivers focus on others without remembering to take care of themselves, unhealthy or destructive behaviors can surface. Apathy, isolation, bottled up emotions and substance misuse are just a few symptoms associated with compassion fatigue.

If you think you or someone you might know have compassion fatigue, it’s important to start treating symptoms so you can get back to feeling your best. Take the first step towards combatting this type of ‘secondary traumatic stress’ by exploring some of the tips below.

• Set more boundaries. Empathetic individuals often have a hard time saying no because they don’t want to let others down. However, setting limits in your personal and professional life can help you conserve your energy and allow you time to recharge. This can also include emotional boundaries like stepping back when you find yourself emotionally drained.

• Take care of yourself. Remember that to take care of others, you must first take care of yourself. Eat well-balanced meals and practice healthy sleep habits. Keep a bottle of water with you – it is easy to become dehydrated when you are under stress. Try to make time once a day for a quick self-care activity such as taking a walk, watching a movie or cuddling with a pet.

• Connect with others. Talking with others who are dealing with similar experiences can be helpful, especially if you don’t have friends and family nearby. There are a variety of caregiver support groups that can help you feel less alone and can give you advice.

• Balance objectivity and empathy. Compassion fatigue stems from an “empathy overload.” Striking a healthy balance between objectivity and empathy is important, and staying aware of your own needs and emotions while practicing compassion can make a big difference in your quality of life.

• Seek support. Treatment for compassion fatigue can help you find relief from your symptoms. Speaking with a mental health professional or contacting your employee assistance program are great places to start.