Having a sense of control helps with burnout and overwhelm. For me, I work best with clear deadlines and due dates. If a class does not have these readily available in a consistent manner, I feel anxious.

In 2021, I worked with the Family Advocacy Program on a military base. FAP is the military version of the Department of Child Services. I was hired to file paperwork and assist with a new parent support program, but I quickly learned I would be closely involved with alleged abuse and neglect claims as well. Some of these cases caused me to feel overwhelmed and left me crying in the car on the way home. I've felt the need for self-care and the impact of burnout in a helping profession and I hope to do a better job of supporting myself this time around.

I will also strive to finish my classwork in the first two days of the week so that I can have the rest of the time for my social media work and family time.

Things I find that replenish me:

Music (both listening and playing)

Dance

Laughter (at media and with friends)

Massage

Exercise

Taking the time to eat

Sleep