Self-Care For Therapists During Times of War
Tips on how therapists can care for themselves so they can better care for others.
During challenging times, including times of war, self-care is a necessity for therapists. Many of us are impacted by the ongoing war currently taking place in Israel in a variety of ways. It is critical that we take care of ourselves so that we can continue to provide the best care for our clients. Here are some important self-care tips for therapists we put together.
C – Create Boundaries
Establish clear boundaries for your work hours and client load.
A – Ask for Support
Seek supervision, consult with colleagues, and ask for help when needed.
R – Reflect Regularly
Engage in self-reflection and journal your thoughts and emotions.
E – Engage in Respite
Take regular breaks and prioritize time off to rest and recharge.
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T – Take Care of Your Physical Well-being
Maintain a healthy diet, exercise, and get adequate sleep.
H – Harness Mindfulness and Relaxation
Practice mindfulness and relaxation techniques to manage stress. Click here for some helpful meditations for difficult times.
E – Extend Your Support Network
Lean on your friends, family, and therapist colleagues for support. Maintain connections. Who can be your “support buddy”?
R – Regularly Check Your Emotional State
Periodically evaluate your mental and emotional well-being. Let go of judgmental thoughts.
A – Appreciate Yourself
Be compassionate and kind to yourself, acknowledging your own needs.
P – Pursue Hobbies and Interests
Engage in activities you enjoy outside of work.
I – Inform, But Limit Exposure
Stay informed but avoid excessive exposure to distressing news.
S – Stay Adaptable
Be flexible in your therapeutic approach to meet the changing needs of your clients.
T – Take Professional Help If Necessary
Seek your own therapy and counseling if needed.
Remember that self-care is not a luxury but a necessity for therapists during challenging times. By recalling “CARE THERAPIST,” you can remember these important self-care strategies, and by taking care of yourself, you can continue to provide the best possible support to your clients.
Sources used to develop this guide:
- https://www.helpguide.org/articles/ptsd-trauma/traumatic-stress.htm
- https://www.synergypsychotherapy.com/thegobl/2021/4/4/caress-a-coping-strategy-12
- https://www.saintcatherines.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Meditation-toolbox-for-hard-times.-26.4.2020.Final-PDF.pdf
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