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Self-care is the practice of taking intentional actions to promote and maintain your physical, mental, and emotional health. It can include habits, lifestyle choices, and practices that help you prevent disease, cope with illness, and manage stress.

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My biggest takeaway from reviewing the resources on burnout, compassion fatigue, and secondary trauma is the critical importance of self-care and establishing boundaries in a professional setting. Understanding that these conditions not only impact well-being but also affect the quality of care provided to others emphasizes the need for proactive measures to maintain mental health and resilience in the helping profession.

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My reflection of self-care is that it is often framed as a luxury, something we indulge in only when time allows. However, it is far from indulgence; it is a necessity for overall well-being. In the fast paced world where the demands of counselors are at an all time high, prioritizing self-care can feel like an afterthought, yet it is crucial for our physical, mental, and emotional health. Self-care is about recognizing our needs and acting on them. Understanding the importance of self-care allows us to build resilience against stressors that can affect our daily lives.

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One effective self-care strategy I can use is setting aside dedicated time for mindfulness practices, such as meditation or deep-breathing exercises. This allows me to recharge mentally and emotionally, which is essential when serving others in the helping profession. Additionally, I will prioritize regular physical activity, like walking or jump roping, to help maintain my physical health and overall well-being, ensuring I am better equipped to support those I serve throughout my profession.

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https://ascd.org/blogs/who-helps-the-helpers-social-emotional-learning-for-school-counselors-mental-health

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Scenario: You've noticed several changes, both physical and mental, in one of your colleagues. You're concerned about her drastic weight loss and have also noticed her difficulty in maintaining a conversation. This colleague currently shows a lack of focus and a lack of empathy for the students under her care, which is a drastic change from her previous commitment to her students.