Self Care
Different clinician’s have different self care activities that work for them. Choose wisely the activities that reduce your stress.
Self care is important to view as more than an occasional treat. One should view it as a way of living each day that incorporates practices and behaviors that help you feel refreshed, re-energized, and rested.
Self-compassion is a part of self care. Self-compassion is being warm and understanding toward ourselves when we feel inadequate or fail rather than ignoring our pain or exaggerating our self-criticism. Self-compassionate people recognize that being imperfect, failing, and experiencing life difficulties is inevitable, so they tend to be gentle with themselves.
Do some form for self care daily. Stress is cumulative, so if you don’t deal with it today, your body will feel it tomorrow.
If you are easily bored, find several activities you can do or pick from.
Try Meditation. Taking a few minutes to clear your mind of various stressors can be an effective self-care tool. Research shows that meditation can improve your focus, immunity, and overall mental well-being.
Nurture your relationships. Call your mom, sibling or friend. Reach out to people you haven’t connected with in a while. Make that lunch date with your new co-worker.
See unexpected breaks in your day, as self-care opportunities. Cancellation? What can you do you would enjoy with your unexpected time?
Change your mindset to make self care a necessity instead of an option.
Take care of your physical needs including getting enough sleep.
The Top 10 Self Care Tips Every Mental Health Clinician Needs
What is self care?
Self care refers to activities and practices that can help you to reduce your stress and enhance your overall well-being. It is proactively taking care of yourself so stress does not build up in your mind or body.
Why is Self-Care important?
Research shows that self-care works to keep you healthy, helps you recharge & improves your overall well-being. It decreases the stress hormones released in your brain allowing for better brain functioning.
How do I make time for self care?
When it feels like your to do list is a mile long, it's easy to feel like you don't have time to practice self care. Studies show that if we prioritize taking care of our mind, body and spirit, it will actually help us be more productive in the long run. Add it to your calendar or to do list!
