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The profession is demanding and challenging, so school counselors must prioritize their well-being to be effective. The school counselor's self-care plan should be proactive, not reactive. Professional school counselors are susceptible to burnout, compassion fatigue, and secondary stress from serving others. When they do not prioritize their own physical and mental health, they put themselves and their students at risk. We must take care of ourselves so we can take care of others.

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Self-care is essential in helping professionals because they spend time and energy focusing on others' needs and sometimes neglect their own personal needs. School counselors are not immune to issues they help their students with, such as depression or anxiety, and must realize they cannot always be everything to everyone at all times. If people do not care for themselves, they will not be able to care adequately for others and perform to their best ability.

Self-care is not optional for school counselors; carving out a plan before being overwhelmed is key. In addition, reflect on the day or week, note feelings, and adjust to coping healthily. It is okay to recognize how one is feeling and why the feelings are occurring. As a future school counselor, I believe that self-care should be mandatory, or burnout will eventually occur.

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My self-care strategies include taking care of my physical and mental health and focusing on doing things that make me feel better and contribute to a better mood. I walk at least three times a week, read books in the evening before bed, and like to maintain my garden outside to relieve stress. However, I currently do not consistently practice my self-care strategies and need to incorporate additional strategies.

My self-care plan includes the following:

1. A consistent bedtime routine of lying down by 10 p.m. and reading a book instead of scrolling on social media and then reading a book. I feel better when I get at least 8-9 hours of sleep and wake up refreshed.

2. I organize my tasks through to-do lists in the morning. This helps me clear my mind and maintain focus throughout the day.

3. Cleaning off desk before leaving work for the day. I have problems focusing when there is a mess in front of me.

4. Exercise at least four days a week by walking, weights, or swimming.

5. Go outside and maintain the garden, which consists of pulling weeds, watering, and cutting flowers, veggies, or fruit. Sunshine always makes me feel happier.

6. Fuel my body with healthy foods 80 percent of the time.

7. Positive self-talk.

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My Self-Care Plan Graphic Illustration

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Self Care Illustration Instagram Story (1)