Self-Care by Josh Cowley

Take Away

jcowley5 — 2023-10-29 15:33:21 UTC

My takeaway from the literature is how self-care is an ethical mandate, not just a suggestion. The counselor can take on the intense emotions of the clients, which can lead to impairment caused by secondary trauma that results in burnout. In any occupation, burnout can arise, but in a helping profession, staying alert and committed is an ethical mandate. Conscious self-awareness is crucial to address burnout and fatigue before it impacts the clients and the session's effectiveness.

Importance of Self-Care

jcowley5 — 2023-10-29 15:34:02 UTC

Self-care is an essential practice since people who strive to help others can prioritize the health and concerns of others over their own. Even when the counselor is focused on others, self-care is best if practiced as part of a routine. A counselor always needs to place importance on personal health and schedule time away or to self-reflect. Counselors with a healthy approach to self-care can be sincere when modeling that skill to their clients and be available to support their coworkers and family.

Personal Self-Care Strategies

jcowley5 — 2023-10-29 15:34:34 UTC

How I reduce impairment is to take time away and rest. I also maintain boundaries and strive to know what I can control. I plan and make small, reachable goals to accomplish tasks. Those tools keep my anxiety over things in balance, so I am focused and able to perform. A work/life balance is crucial for optimal performance, especially in the helping field, where each interaction is unique and human nature is complex. Experiencing the calmness and vastness of nature helps me unplug and recharge. I also need to schedule and have self-care become a routine and habit, so I am not neglectful of myself since I tend to prioritize others over myself.

Visual Representation

jcowley5 — 2023-10-29 15:51:09 UTC