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As therapists, we spend so much time encouraging our clients to engage in self-care, to put themselves at the top of their priority list. We share all sorts of valuable tips on how to maintain balance and well-being. Yet, when it comes to taking our own advice, we often fall short. The reality is, many therapists are guilty of not practicing what they preach when it comes to self-care.
In the field of helping others, it’s easy to neglect yourself, but to continue providing the best care for others, you need to make sure you’re also taking care of yourself. Let’s explore some practical ways to prioritize your well-being.
Why Do Therapists Struggle with Self-Care?
It’s no secret that we are natural caregivers. As clinicians, we are driven by the desire to help, heal, and support others. But with this caring nature often comes a tendency to overlook our own needs. We are quick to suggest self-care routines for our clients, but how often do we take the time to engage in those practices ourselves?
There’s also a common misconception that self-care has to be some grand gesture—weekend getaways, spa days, or lengthy meditation retreats. While these are certainly wonderful ways to relax, effective self-care doesn’t have to be so elaborate. In fact, it’s often the small, consistent habits that make the biggest difference.
What Does Real Self-Care Look Like?
Self-care can be as simple as closing your laptop by 6 PM each day, allowing yourself to disconnect and recharge. It might mean taking a walk once a week to get your blood flowing and clear your mind. Or, it could be making time for a hobby, like painting or reading, that brings you joy and helps you unwind.
The key is to find small, meaningful ways to care for yourself regularly. Instead of waiting until burnout hits, incorporate self-care into your daily routine so that it becomes a natural part of your life.
The Consequences of Neglecting Self-Care
One of the biggest challenges in our profession is burnout, and it’s often a result of not prioritizing ourselves. We give and give, sometimes to the point of exhaustion, forgetting that selflessness without balance can lead to physical and emotional fatigue.
When we neglect self-care, it not only impacts our own well-being, but it also affects the care we provide to our clients. How can we show up fully present for them if we’re running on empty ourselves?
Putting Yourself at the Top of Your List
It’s imperative to shift your mindset and start putting yourself at the top of your priority list. This doesn’t mean being selfish—it means recognizing that you can’t pour from an empty cup. When you care for yourself, you are better equipped to care for others.
Schedule time for activities that nourish you, whether it’s engaging in hobbies, exercising, or simply resting. Set boundaries with your work, like finishing at a reasonable hour or taking regular breaks. By taking these steps, you’re not only preventing burnout, but also modeling healthy behavior for your clients.
Practical Tips for Therapist Self-Care
Here are some simple ways to incorporate self-care into your routine:
- Set boundaries: Close your laptop by a certain time each day and stick to it. Create clear work-life boundaries.
- Get moving: Take a walk or engage in physical activity at least once a week. It’s great for your body and mind.
- Pursue hobbies: Make time for activities that bring you joy, whether it’s painting, reading, or gardening.
- Rest and recharge: Make sleep a priority. A well-rested mind is more focused and better equipped to handle the demands of your job.
- Stay connected: Surround yourself with supportive colleagues and friends who understand the unique pressures of the helping profession.
The Helper’s Dilemma
As therapists, we often feel that because we are in the business of helping others, we should have our self-care under control. But the truth is, many of us wait until the last minute—until we’re already feeling overwhelmed—before we actually start to take care of ourselves.
By making self-care a regular part of your routine, rather than something you turn to in moments of crisis, you can reduce the likelihood of burnout and continue to thrive in your role as a helper.
In the helping profession, selflessness is often seen as a virtue. However, if you don’t put yourself at the top of your list, you won’t have the energy, patience, or clarity to truly help others. Remember that taking care of yourself is not a luxury—it’s a necessity. You are your most important client, and by prioritizing your well-being, you are setting the foundation for a healthier, more sustainable career as a therapist.
