Erasmus+ Project: “Compassion Fatigue” (2020-3-TR01-KA105-096457)
Duration: January 2021 – October 2022
Countries involved: 7
EU Grant: €28,212
Understanding Compassion Fatigue
Caring for others is an important part of being human. But sometimes, people who help others every day — such as social workers, teachers, and health professionals — can feel emotionally tired. This feeling is called compassion fatigue (CF). It happens when someone gives too much emotional energy to others and forgets to care for themselves.
The Erasmus+ project “Compassion Fatigue” aimed to raise awareness about this problem among young people and professionals. It also wanted to teach how to stay emotionally healthy while continuing to help others.
The Goals of the Project
The main goals of the project were:
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To increase awareness about compassion fatigue among youth and their communities.
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To learn how to use health and social services to prevent CF.
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To promote empathy, tolerance, and inclusion.
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To create intercultural friendships and learning experiences.
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To guide people who live with CF and to share healthy coping strategies.
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To raise awareness about Erasmus+ opportunities and European youth projects.
Activities and Learning
A total of 42 participants and 3 volunteer researchers joined the project. They came from seven different countries and represented many professions: psychologists, sociologists, teachers, lawyers, and students.
All participants spoke English and took part in activities using informal and non-formal learning methods such as workshops, cultural nights, street interviews, and interactive presentations.
One of the key parts of the project was a survey based on the Compassion Fatigue Scale by Akdeniz & Deniz (2016). Over 230 people completed the survey, helping the teams understand how compassion fatigue affects people in different cultures.
Each group analyzed the results and shared their findings through presentations. They also discussed solutions and created a CF Booklet, which is now available online on SALTO and social media platforms.
Cultural Exchange and Erasmus+ Awareness
Beyond academic work, the project was also a cultural journey. Participants explored Ankara, shared traditions during culture nights, and learned about Erasmus+ programs and Youthpass certificates. These activities built strong intercultural friendships and helped participants understand the importance of empathy, respect, and cooperation between cultures.
Results and Impact
By the end of the project, participants showed significant personal and social growth. They improved their communication and teamwork skills, gained self-confidence, and became more aware of mental health challenges.
They also developed a deeper understanding of how compassion works — and how to protect it. Many participants said they became more empathetic and socially responsible after joining the project.
The final output — a guide to fighting compassion fatigue — shares practical ideas for young people, educators, and organizations that work with communities.
A Step Toward a Healthier, More Compassionate World
The Compassion Fatigue project proved that learning, empathy, and culture can come together to create positive change. By connecting youth from different countries, it showed that compassion can grow stronger when we learn how to care — for others and for ourselves.
