The biggest take-away that I gained from reviewing the resources on compassion fatigue and burn out is that self-care is not just a "me" problem, but it can also turn into an ethical problem when dealing with students as a school counselor. I never thought about how not taking care of myself could negatively impact my counseling abilities to the point where it could be an ethical problem. The ACA Code of Ethics (2014) explains that counselors are required to monitor their own mental and physical well-being and and stop providing services if they feel their well-being is negatively impacting their abilities.

Reference:

American Counseling Association. (2014). ACA code of ethics.

While I know that it has become an often overused phrase, it still remains true that it is impossible to pour from an empty cup. This is especially true in the helping professions. As a school counselor, if I am struggling with burn out or compassion fatigue, then I know that I will not be very helpful at all to my students, no matter how good my intentions are. That is why it is so crucial for school counselors and helpers in general to practice quality self-care rituals.

One of the best ways that I try to practice self-care is by allowing myself time to just sit and read a book or work on a jigsaw puzzle. These are two of my favorite activities because they allow me to take a break from the thoughts and stressors of life and focus my attention on other things. Even when I am extremely busy with my kids, work, and school, I try to find small chunks of time at least 2-3 times a week to enjoy one of these activities.