Nurturing the Nurturers: Self Care Tips Amidst Stressful Times

In the whirlwind of supporting students, managing crises, and navigating the ever-changing landscape of education, it’s easy for us as counselors to neglect our own well-being. However, prioritizing self-care is not just beneficial—it’s essential.

What Has Changed?

1. Increasing Demands: The days of wondering why there even needs to be a counselor in the schools is long gone. (Yes there was a time when that was a thing). From addressing academic concerns to providing social-emotional support, the role of an elementary school counselor has evolved to encompass a wide array of responsibilities.
2. Emotional Weight:   The mental health crisis in the country has definitely affected the youngest of the population as well as adults. Listening to students’ struggles and traumas can take an emotional toll, leaving counselors vulnerable to burnout and compassion fatigue.
3. Time Constraints: School counselors are asked to do more and more for everyone. Balancing administrative tasks, individual counseling sessions, group interventions, and classroom presentations within limited time frames can be overwhelming.

What are the Best Practices for Self-Care?

1. Set Boundaries: Establish clear boundaries between work and personal life. Designate specific times for self-care activities and stick to them.
2. Practice Mindfulness: Incorporate mindfulness techniques into your daily routine, such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or mindful walking.
3. Seek Support: Connect with colleagues or join professional support groups to share experiences, seek advice, and receive encouragement.
4. Engage in Hobbies: Dedicate time to activities you enjoy outside of work, whether it’s reading, gardening, painting, or hiking. These hobbies serve as outlets for stress relief and rejuvenation.

Need to Learn More?

Bibliography of Self-Care Books for Counselors:

1. The Burnout Cure: Learning to Love Teaching Again by Chase Mielke This book offers practical strategies for managing stress and preventing burnout in the field of education.
2. The Mindful School Counselor: A Quick Reference Guide for Bringing Mindfulness into Your School Counseling Program by Richard Brumfield: Explore mindfulness techniques specifically tailored to the needs of school counselors to promote well-being and resilience.
3. Meditation for the Modern Family by Kelly Smith: Although geared towards mothers, this book offers a valuable understanding of meditation and mindfulness for anyone along with specific meditation practices for different ages.

By prioritizing our own well-being, we not only enhance our ability to support students effectively but also model healthy habits for them to emulate. How do you plan to nurture yourself going forward?