Compassion Fatigue and Secondary Traumatic Stress Among Israeli Mental Health Clinicians during Conflict

Background and Purpose: The October 7 Hammas attack and subsequent ongoing conflict have precipitated a marked increase in the demand for mental health services in Israel. This study investigates compassion fatigue and secondary traumatic stress among Israeli mental health clinicians, providing insights into the challenges faced by healthcare providers in war zones.

Methods: This quantitative study surveyed 247 mental health clinicians in Israel, utilizing the Professional Quality of Life Scale (PROQOL) to assess levels of Compassion Satisfaction, Compassion Fatigue, and Secondary Traumatic Stress. The scale measures the emotional and physical exhaustion clinicians experience, which may impair their ability to empathize and deliver quality care.

Results: The results revealed that 87% of clinicians reported high levels of compassion fatigue and secondary traumatic stress. Additionally, 77% (n=190) indicated a significant negative shift in their work-life balance, underscoring the intense emotional and professional toll of continuous exposure to trauma.

Implications for Practice: The findings underscore the critical need for robust support systems for mental health professionals in high-stress environments globally. Recommendations include implementing comprehensive policies to enhance clinician resilience, adjusting workloads, increasing access to professional development focused on self-care, and fostering an organizational culture that prioritizes the well-being of caregivers.

Conclusion: This study highlights the profound impact of prolonged conflict on mental health providers and the necessity for systemic changes to support the mental health of clinicians as diligently as that of their clients.