Compassion fatigue is a serious issue that can affect anyone working in a caregiving role, including those in the field of animal care and biomedical research. The emotional and physical toll of caring for animals used in research can lead to burnout, stress, and other negative effects on an individual’s mental and physical health. At Quip Labs, we understand the importance of addressing compassion fatigue in order to support the well-being of animal care staff and veterinarians. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of resources and strategies to help individuals combat compassion fatigue and promote self-care.
What is Compassion Fatigue?
Compassion Fatigue Resources
NAC3Rs Compassion Fatigue Resources
Working with research animals can be challenging, leading to workplace stress, burnout, and compassion fatigue. But together we can support resiliency. We have a range of resources designed to promote resiliency for both individuals & institutions.
University of Washington’s Dare 2 Care Program
As Compassion Fatigue is a normal consequence of caring, this project of building the Dare 2 Care (D2C) Compassion in Science Program at the University of Washington has been designed to assist all members of the research team in understanding and coping with this common concern by managing the emotional challenges resulting from the care and use of laboratory animals.
University of Michigan’s Compassion Awareness Project
The Compassion Awareness Project (CAP) is a Unit for Laboratory Animal Medicine (ULAM) led initiative to address the issue of compassion fatigue, including the subsequent mental and physical health issues, and job-related concerns it can cause.
The Compassion Fatigue Awareness Project
High levels of compassion fatigue can be managed with a number of authentic, sustainable strategies. This site has numerous resources we have found for caregivers working in many professions. The Compassion Fatigue Awareness Project also offers original training materials, workbooks, and texts.
National AALAS Cost of Caring Resources
From presentations to training courses, the American Association for Laboratory Animal Science provides a variety of resources on the topic of compassion
What is Compassion Fatigue and how can you reduce the risk at your facility?
Compassion fatigue is a well-known issue for those working in the biomedical industry. As animal care staff and veterinarians are constantly exposed to the stress and trauma that comes with working with research animals, it is important for them to prioritize their own self-care and seek out resources to support their mental health. Here are some of the top compassion fatigue resources for those in the biomedical industry:
- NAC3Rs – The North American 3Rs Collaborative has developed a comprehensive guide on compassion fatigue that includes strategies for institutions to implement, as well as individual resources for staff members. The guide covers topics such as promoting social support, self-care and resiliency, providing choice for animal euthanasia, supporting animal behavior and welfare, and advocating for an open atmosphere of dialogue about animal research.
- University of Washington’s Dare 2 Care Program – This program provides workshops and seminars for animal care staff on topics such as mindfulness, communication, and coping with grief and loss. The program also includes a peer support network for staff to connect with one another and discuss their experiences.
- University of Michigan’s Compassion Awareness Project – This project offers a variety of resources for those experiencing compassion fatigue, including a wellness program that includes yoga and meditation classes, as well as workshops on sleep and nutrition. The project also provides a peer support network and counseling services.
- Compassion Fatigue Awareness Project – This website provides a wealth of information on compassion fatigue, including articles, webinars, and other resources. The site also offers a self-assessment tool for individuals to determine if they are experiencing compassion fatigue.
- AALAS Cost of Caring – The American Association for Laboratory Animal Science provides a variety of resources on the topic of compassion