Working in behavioral health alumni services is deeply meaningful—but it can also be emotionally exhausting. As alumni professionals, we are often the first call for those newly in recovery, the reassuring voice for worried families, and the steady presence behind follow-up calls, community events, and check-ins. We’re also juggling deadlines, metrics, and the pressure to continually show program value. It’s no wonder many of us begin to feel worn down, stretched thin, and emotionally depleted.
When you’re constantly offering support to others, especially those in the fragile early stages of recovery, it’s easy to forget that you need support, too. But if we don’t take care of ourselves, we risk losing the connection and purpose that drew us to this work in the first place.
That’s where community matters.
What Is Compassion Fatigue?
Compassion fatigue—a form of burnout that comes from caring deeply and giving continuously without enough time or space to refill your own tank. It shows up subtly at first: feeling emotionally drained after alumni calls, losing enthusiasm for events you once loved, or becoming overwhelmed by one more family needing support.
How Does TPAS Help?
TPAS offers over 200 alumni professionals nationwide who understand the weight you carry—and are ready to walk beside you when times get tough. Monthly workshops, group coaching, in-person Collaboratives allow you to lean into your network. You are not alone.
Preventing and Managing Compassion Fatigue
As you continue supporting others, here are a few reminders to protect your own well-being:
- Prioritize Self-Care: Build in time for activities that recharge you—whether that’s exercise, journaling, or simply a quiet moment with coffee.
Set Boundaries: It’s okay to say no or “not right now.” Protecting your time makes you more effective in the long run. - Engage in Self-Reflection: Take stock of how you’re feeling. Is this work still energizing you—or depleting you?
- Seek Support: Talk to peers, supervisors, or alumni colleagues. Venting and validating your experience can be powerful. Check out the Idea Exchange every 3rd Thursday at 12 pm MT.
- Seek Professional Help: Therapy or counseling can provide invaluable tools and a safe space to reset.
- Find Meaning: Reconnect with the “why” behind your work. Celebrate the wins—even the small ones.
- Practice Mindfulness: Whether it’s a few deep breaths between calls or a grounding walk, mindfulness helps restore balance.
Download the TPAS App and connect with other alumni professionals on our live chat.
You’re doing life-changing work. But to keep the engine burning bright, you must take care of the one driving it—you!
ABOUT TPAS
Treatment Professionals in Alumni Services (TPAS) is a non-profit membership organization dedicated to advancing the field of alumni engagement in behavioral health. TPAS supports programs and professionals in building strong, sustainable alumni communities that foster long-term recovery and connection. Through education, collaboration, and resources, TPAS empowers members to develop impactful alumni services that extend care beyond treatment.
