The Power of Empathy and Self-Compassion in Advocacy and Mental Health Work
In professions that involve supporting vulnerable people, the emotional burden can be immense. Advocates, social workers, community leaders, and mental health professionals often face difficult questions: How do you keep going when outcomes are uncertain? How do you carry the weight of other people’s pain without losing yourself?
In a thoughtful conversation, advocate and community leader Lisa Ward shared her perspective on resilience, empathy, and the internal practices that help her continue supporting those who need it most. Hosted by Dev Singh, the discussion explored the emotional realities of advocacy work and the importance of compassion not only for those we serve, but for ourselves.
At the heart of the conversation was a powerful reminder: sometimes doing your best is all you can do, even when outcomes remain beyond your control.
The Emotional Reality of Advocacy Work
Working closely with vulnerable individuals can be deeply rewarding, but it also brings moments of heartbreak.
Lisa reflected on experiences where, despite the best intentions and efforts, outcomes did not change. These moments often lead professionals to question themselves:
- Could something have been done differently?
- Was there another way to help?
- Did we miss an opportunity?
Yet, as Lisa explains, there are times when the outcome may have been the same regardless of the actions taken.
Recognising this reality is essential for those working in mental health, social care, and advocacy roles. Without this understanding, the emotional toll can become overwhelming.
A Personal Philosophy: Purpose Over Perfection
Lisa describes herself as not overtly religious, yet deeply connected to the belief that people are guided towards their purpose.
For her, advocacy is a calling.
She believes that when individuals are facing challenges or vulnerability, someone must be willing to stand beside them. That sense of responsibility provides the motivation to continue the work even during the most difficult moments.
Her approach centres on three core values:
- Empathy
- Compassion
- Realistic expectations
Rather than promising outcomes she cannot guarantee, Lisa focuses on offering honest support and consistent advocacy.
Watch the complete Podcast on YouTube.
The Importance of Avoiding False Promises
One of the most important lessons Lisa shares is the danger of overpromising.
In support roles, the desire to give hope can sometimes lead to commitments that cannot be fulfilled. However, when promises are broken, trust can quickly erode.
Lisa emphasises that honesty and transparency are vital.
By setting realistic expectations, advocates maintain trust with the people they support. It allows individuals to feel respected rather than misled, even when the journey ahead is uncertain.
Trust, she explains, is one of the most valuable foundations of effective support.
Practising Self-Compassion in Difficult Work
While compassion for others is central to advocacy, Lisa stresses that self-compassion is equally important.
Professionals often hold themselves to impossibly high standards, feeling responsible for every outcome. This mindset can lead to burnout, guilt, and emotional exhaustion.
Instead, Lisa follows a simple but powerful reflection:
If I can go to sleep at night knowing there was nothing more I could have done for that person, then I know I did my job.
This perspective allows her to maintain emotional balance while continuing to serve others.
Accepting the Limits of Control
One of the most difficult realities in mental health and community work is accepting that not every situation can be changed.
Lisa spoke about a young person whose story continues to affect her deeply. Despite every effort made to support him, the outcome was tragic.
Coming to terms with such experiences requires recognising a difficult truth: sometimes people are carrying pain that cannot be fully resolved by others.
For those working in care professions, learning to accept this limitation is essential for emotional resilience.
It does not mean the effort was meaningless. It means that compassion and support were offered, even if the final outcome remained beyond control.
The Strength Found in Empathy
Ultimately, Lisa’s message is one of humanity.
Empathy, she explains, should extend in two directions:
- Toward those who need help
- Toward ourselves as we try to help them
Advocacy, leadership, and community support all require emotional courage. But when grounded in compassion and honesty, they become powerful forces for positive change.
Even in the most difficult circumstances, simply showing up with care and integrity can make a lasting difference.
Join Us at Our Upcoming Events
Join Us at the National Child & Family Safety Leadership Summit 2026 will bring together leaders, practitioners, policymakers, researchers and community voices from across the country. This important gathering creates space for meaningful dialogue on the most pressing issues impacting children and families including domestic violence, coercive control, child protection, and community wellbeing.
We look forward to welcoming you to this moving and inspiring celebration of women’s achievements and contributions. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from one of WA’s most influential scientific leaders, Miquela Riley.