Self-Care
Self-care means you are simply being mindful of your own needs, so you are better able to support the people around you.
We understand that precepting a student requires an investment of your time and energy. Here are some reminders about taking care of yourself while you are mentoring the next generation of professionals.
Physical
- Are you getting adequate sleep?
- Is your diet fueling your body well?
- Are you taking charge of your health?
- Are you getting enough sleep?
Social
- Are you getting enough face-to-face time with your friends?
- What are you doing to nurture your relationship with your family and friends?
Mental
- Are you making enough time for activities that mentally stimulate you?
- Are you doing proactive things to help you stay mentally healthy?
Spiritual
- What questions do you ask yourself about your life and experience?
- Are you engaging in spiritual practices that you find fulfilling?
Emotional
- Do you have healthy ways to process your emotions?
- Do you incorporate activities into your life that help you feel recharged?
The A-to-Z Self-Care Handbook: 26 Self-Care Tips
Are you a helping professional who struggles with incorporating self-care into your daily life? The authors of this book argue that we must see self-care as not only critical for our mental health but as a necessity for ethical practice. Without taking care of ourselves, we will be hindered from providing the best care to our clients and are likely to suffer from stress, burnout, compassion-fatigue or secondary/vicarious trauma.