4 answers
Aaliyah
Student
Pomona, California
1
Question
Asked
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How can someone incorporate daily self-care while serving in the mental health field?
I am currently a first-year graduate student. Thank you!
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4 answers
Perry Zuckerman
Psychiatrist
30
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Perry’s Answer
Hello Aaliyah,
I'm a MD - Psychiatrist. Been there, done that. I do it to this day.
First of all, don't neglect your studies. Keep up. Don't fall behind. Do not fall behind ! This means putting in the hours every day. This alone is crucial for reduced stress.
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Now, as much as you can within this reality, give yourself some free time. A slight counterweight on the scales. Some enjoyment.
Weekends: On the weekends, you will be studying a few hours in the daytime, but go out with friends or family for a few hours Friday or Saturday night. Or maybe go to a party. Or a date. Or something. Maybe even the occasional weekend getaway [as long as you are keeping up - I did].
Weekdays: And maybe an hour or so of "breathing" on weekdays. Maybe a half-hour [no more] phone talk with friends or family [not just email].
And EXERCISE. About a half-hour a few days a week.
Don't do these things and you will lose your mind and not finish. Do these things and you are on your way.
All these things get easier after you finish school and you are out as a fully trained mental health worker.
But for now hunker down. However, still with a life.
I hope this helps.
Perry
I'm a MD - Psychiatrist. Been there, done that. I do it to this day.
First of all, don't neglect your studies. Keep up. Don't fall behind. Do not fall behind ! This means putting in the hours every day. This alone is crucial for reduced stress.
======================
Now, as much as you can within this reality, give yourself some free time. A slight counterweight on the scales. Some enjoyment.
Weekends: On the weekends, you will be studying a few hours in the daytime, but go out with friends or family for a few hours Friday or Saturday night. Or maybe go to a party. Or a date. Or something. Maybe even the occasional weekend getaway [as long as you are keeping up - I did].
Weekdays: And maybe an hour or so of "breathing" on weekdays. Maybe a half-hour [no more] phone talk with friends or family [not just email].
And EXERCISE. About a half-hour a few days a week.
Don't do these things and you will lose your mind and not finish. Do these things and you are on your way.
All these things get easier after you finish school and you are out as a fully trained mental health worker.
But for now hunker down. However, still with a life.
I hope this helps.
Perry
Loved reading this, thanks!
Aaliyah
Ashley Wallace
Occupational Therapist
3
Answers
Barnum, Minnesota
Updated
Ashley’s Answer
Take time to reflect on your values- why are you going into this field, what do you value about the field, what are your personal and relationship values, etc. Once you identify your primary values, then it's easier to set boundaries and recognize the things you do are either supporting your values, or not. Give yourself grace, grad school and everything that goes with it is a challenge, and we often expect too much out of ourselves during these seasons in our lives.
Thank you so much!
Aaliyah
Felicia Athena
Psychologist
3
Answers
Tangerang, Banten, Indonesia
Updated
Felicia’s Answer
Hi Aaliyah.
As you learn about analyzing people's needs and relevant treatments, don't forget to reflect on yourself. Everyone has self-care techniques that suits them, whether it's breathing exercises, getting enough me-time, or even taking time to shop during weekends. The most important thing you need to do is recognize your needs, self-care techniques that work for you, and signs that you are getting drained. Being a graduate student can also be overwhelming for some people, so you need to decide your goals--to what extent will you prioritize academics and work over your own health? Once you have the answers, you should be able to create healthy boundaries to maintain your mental health.
As you learn about analyzing people's needs and relevant treatments, don't forget to reflect on yourself. Everyone has self-care techniques that suits them, whether it's breathing exercises, getting enough me-time, or even taking time to shop during weekends. The most important thing you need to do is recognize your needs, self-care techniques that work for you, and signs that you are getting drained. Being a graduate student can also be overwhelming for some people, so you need to decide your goals--to what extent will you prioritize academics and work over your own health? Once you have the answers, you should be able to create healthy boundaries to maintain your mental health.
Thank you so much for the advice!
Aaliyah
Nija Jackson, LCSW
Compassionate and Dedicated Social Worker currently seeking Social Work opportunities to establish growth and longevity.
129
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Nija’s Answer
That's such a great question! Working in mental health can be really rewarding, but it can also be tough if you don't take care of yourself. I've found that self-care every day isn't just nice, it's a must to stay balanced and be there for others.
For me, self-care doesn't have to be big or fancy. It's about adding small habits to my day, like:
1) Starting the day with quiet time — whether it's praying, journaling, or just taking a few deep breaths before I check my phone.
2) Setting boundaries — mentally "clocking out" when the workday ends and not bringing my clients' emotions into my personal life.
3) Taking movement breaks — a quick walk, some stretching, or even just standing up during the day helps clear my mind.
4) Staying connected — talking with a trusted friend or peer for support when I need it. I've learned I don't have to handle everything alone.
5) Doing something just for me — like listening to music, watching a favorite show, or enjoying a creative hobby.
Self-care is about being consistent, not perfect. The aim is to give myself a little boost each day so I don't feel drained. I have to be intentional about it, but it really makes a difference in how I show up for my clients and myself.
For me, self-care doesn't have to be big or fancy. It's about adding small habits to my day, like:
1) Starting the day with quiet time — whether it's praying, journaling, or just taking a few deep breaths before I check my phone.
2) Setting boundaries — mentally "clocking out" when the workday ends and not bringing my clients' emotions into my personal life.
3) Taking movement breaks — a quick walk, some stretching, or even just standing up during the day helps clear my mind.
4) Staying connected — talking with a trusted friend or peer for support when I need it. I've learned I don't have to handle everything alone.
5) Doing something just for me — like listening to music, watching a favorite show, or enjoying a creative hobby.
Self-care is about being consistent, not perfect. The aim is to give myself a little boost each day so I don't feel drained. I have to be intentional about it, but it really makes a difference in how I show up for my clients and myself.
Thank you so much, Nija. I truly appreciate your answer!
Aaliyah