Which emotional effect is commonly experienced by caregivers after a disaster?

Caregivers often experience compassion fatigue after a disaster due to the emotional toll associated with providing continuous support and care to those affected. Compassion fatigue is characterized by a gradual diminishing of compassion over time, resulting from prolonged exposure to suffering and the stress of seeing others in distress. Caregivers might feel overwhelmed, emotionally drained, and disconnected as they deal with their own stressors while trying to support others, which can lead to burnout and a reduced capacity to empathize effectively.

This phenomenon is particularly relevant in the context of disasters, where caregivers may encounter high levels of trauma and suffering, making it crucial for them to recognize their emotional needs and seek support. While other emotional effects might be perceived during or after a disaster, such as indifference or increased resilience, they do not specifically address the fatigue and emotional depletion linked to the ongoing care and support that caregivers must provide. Joy is also unlikely in this context, as the aftermath of a disaster typically brings significant distress rather than happiness.