PAR Winter 2021 Clinical DigitalCatalog Final - Flipbook - Page 7
on-topic
“
Heal the healer
Every psychologist is at risk
for occupational stress …
This vulnerability to stress is
not a reflection of pathology
By Melanie Casey, PAR Communications Manager
in the psychologist, but a
S
ometimes, we get so involved and
invested with helping others that we
forget to help ourselves. There never
seems to be enough time—to exercise, to
relax, to cook a healthy meal—and before
long, we might start to feel isolated, overworked, and dissatisfied.
Over time, we run on empty. And
then we start to run down. And when
we look back—stressed, exhausted,
and possibly even burned out—we
don’t know how we got there.
As a clinician, you spend a good part
of your day focused, listening, and
caring about your clients and patients.
According to the APA, “every psychologist
is at risk for occupational stress … This
vulnerability to stress is not a reflection
of pathology in the psychologist, but a
reality of the challenge of our work.”*
Clearly, the rigors of your role can take
a toll. You may find that you have
difficulty focusing, have increased
cynicism, have increased isolation, and
are irritable and impatient. You might
even notice memory problems, more
clinical errors, and substance abuse. You
could even lose faith in what you do.
Rest assured: You are doing important
work. Life-changing work. To do that
adequately and give your clients the
focus, attention, and services they
deserve, you need to be the best you can
be. Like a parent putting on their own
oxygen mask first, you need to take care
of yourself so you can take care of others.
That’s what wellbeing is all about:
Taking—and making—the time to prioritize
yourself. There are many ways to do
this (see box, right). Some can be done
anywhere at any time; others require a bit
more planning. But the payoff is worth
it—more energy, better perspectives, more
enjoyment at work. Ultimately, taking care
of yourself can make you a better clinician.
reality of the challenge
of our work.
”
*
W AYS TO P ROT E CT YO URSE LF
F R O M O CCUPAT IO N AL ST R E SS
• Honestly assess your emotional,
• Prioritize balance in work, rest, and play.
psychological, and spiritual wellbeing
regularly—and seek personal therapy
services if you need them.
•P
ursue opportunities for intellectual
stimulation outside of the profession.
• Take regular vacations.
Learn more about this and
other wellbeing topics
at parcares.com
* https://bit.ly/3mM1zRM
Phone 1.800.331.8378
•
parinc.com
•
pariconnect.com
•
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