Hmmm. I don’t want to be negative and tell you that you shouldn’t be compassionate but I do think it’s maybe more appropriate to set up good solid boundaries in the case you’re describing in your job.
Yes people may be stressed and they may not understand why they can’t have their meds right now - you’re showing compassion right there when you describe that but if people are going to be aggressive or rude in their manner you need to self protect first of all imo. I work in retail too, not as stressful as yours, but customers do rant at me sometimes- I try to let it slide off me, diffusing the situation if I can - but callous as this may sound I’m not going to take on board their emotions. I have a tendency to take on board other’s emotions so this has been a work in progress for me.
In short I think self compassion is a thing to consider above all else. I really feel for you on this btw and I bet among all those customers there will be some like me who really appreciate the work you do.
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