Which best describes the emotional state of a caregiver suffering from compassion fatigue?

The emotional state of a caregiver suffering from compassion fatigue is best described as emotional exhaustion and depletion. Compassion fatigue occurs as a result of the ongoing emotional strain associated with caring for others, especially in situations involving trauma or prolonged stress. Caregivers may become overwhelmed by the needs of those they are caring for, leading to a diminished capacity to empathize or feel compassion. This can manifest as feelings of emptiness, fatigue, and a lack of motivation, which encapsulates the notion of emotional exhaustion and depletion.

Unlike heightened enthusiasm or a sense of purpose, caregivers experiencing compassion fatigue often feel the opposite—decreased enthusiasm and a lack of energy to meet the demands of caregiving. They are more likely to experience physical and emotional symptoms that contribute to their depleted state rather than an increase in passion or commitment to caregiving. Thus, emotional exhaustion and depletion accurately capture the essence of the caregiver's experience under the weight of compassion fatigue.