11.2.2. Self-Care for Staff
It is vital that staff are provided with training around how to practice good self-care and are given the opportunity to enact these learnings in their day-to-day life. To provide the best care and support for survivors, staff must care for themselves and their peers. Staff must be honest with themselves about how they are feeling and share these thoughts with supervisors and managers. Self-care strategies should be encouraged and facilitated by the agency.
- Individual strategies for reducing risk of, and dealing with, burnout and vicarious trauma
Those at risk of, or experiencing, burnout or vicarious trauma should develop an individualised care plan in consultation with their managers or agency. These experiences should not be treated as the ‘fault’ of the staff member. However, individuals should also institute strategies for reducing risk and dealing with burnout and vicarious trauma, including:
- Evaluating options.
- Seeking community support.
- Seeking professional support.
- Considering relaxing activities.
- Considering physical activities.
- Valuing sleep.
- Practicing mindfulness.
- Rebalancing work-life balance.
Self-care plans should be specific and include mental, physical, emotional, and social dimensions. It is critical to treat these self-care activities as unmissable appointments; otherwise self-care will not be prioritised and burnout or vicarious trauma will continue.
