When Compassion Fatigue Hits Hard

There are moments when the weight of the world feels too heavy to carry—especially for those who are natural caregivers, helpers, and encouragers. In today's devotional, Alexis A. Goring explores compassion fatigue—a very real emotional exhaustion that can happen when you’re constantly giving of yourself to help others.

Drawing from Psalm 145:9, “The Lord is good to all; he has compassion on all he has made,” we’re reminded that while we may reach the end of our emotional strength, God never does. He never tires, never grows weary, and always has time for your burdens.

We encourage you to pause and pray: “Lord, help me cast my cares on You and remind me that I don’t need to carry it all. Thank You for your limitless compassion.”

Whether you're in ministry, caregiving, or just the “strong friend” who everyone leans on, today is your invitation to unplug, rest, and reconnect with the One who never sleeps. God is the only one truly capable of caring for everyone—and that includes you.

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Join the Conversation:
When was the last time you experienced compassion fatigue? What helped you get through it? Share with us on social media @LifeaudioNetwork or send us an email. Let’s support each other in remembering that it’s okay to step back—and to lean into God’s everlasting care.

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Full Transcript Below:

Compassion Fatigue 

A devotional by Alexis A. Goring

“The Lord is good to all; he has compassion on all he has made.”

— Psalm 145:9 NIV

What do you do when you feel overwhelmed? 

I remember when a minister friend of mine told me that when she feels overwhelmed by people’s issues, she unplugs from social media, turns off her phone and shuts down her computer to take a break from all of it.

Soon after, I realized that she was describing compassion fatigue. According to Psychology Today, “People whose professions lead to prolonged exposure to other people’s trauma can be vulnerable to compassion fatigue, also known as secondary or vicarious trauma; they can experience acute symptoms that put their physical and mental health at risk, making them wary of giving and caring.”

When you are a minister or professional counselor then compassion fatigue might be a common experience for you. However, I say that anybody who cares about people and wants to help fix problems can experience this kind of fatigue. Let’s face it: There are a lot of problems in our world and many people who need help solving issues and surviving the curveballs that life throws at them. God has gifted us with healthcare professionals who we can go to when we need help. But these talented people—as wonderful and effective as they may be—are only human. So that means even the most helpful professional has their limits. 

As the type of person who is known to be the &ldquo