Kansas City,
25
November
2020
|
09:50 AM
America/Chicago

Fox 4: Metro health workers helping each other battle compassion fatigue as pandemic wages on

By Pat McGonigle

If the endless headlines and staggering statistics that come with the coronavirus pandemic are leaving you feeling a bit drained, you’re far from alone.

“This pandemic has shaken us up in so many different ways. I can’t think of a single person that’s gone untouched by it,” said Dr. Jennifer Bickel, a neurologist at Children’s Mercy Hospital.

Bickel has been tasked with helping her colleagues navigate the often overwhelming emotional toll of battling the virus on a daily basis.

“When we are in this fatigued, stressed, fear-based state of mind, we will automatically interpret actions in a negative light more than a positive light,” Bickel said.

It’s why Children’s Mercy has made virtual meditation, social workers and even hospital chaplains available to staff members.

“That’s the biggest thing we hear; people are tired,” Bickel said.

“Every night at the same time, write down three good things that happened that day,” Bickel said. “And then spend some time reflecting about those three good things and, better yet, maybe sharing them with other people.”

Another healthy way to face the future with a sense of vigor, Bickel advises, is to reflect on the difficult terrain we’ve already traveled.

“People have built resiliency in ways that they never imagined that they could,” Bickel said. “If you think back to eight months ago, do you think that you could’ve tolerated these last eight months? But we did, right? We did.”

 

See the full story via Fox 4

Learn more about Well-being Resources at Children's Mercy