When starting a career in a relationship-intense field whether in education, healthcare, social work, or family services, the demands can feel both inspiring and overwhelming. While the rewards of helping others are significant, the emotional labor involved often takes a toll. For new professionals, the concept of self-care may seem secondary to the mission of serving others. Worse, some may fear that prioritizing their own needs could appear selfish.
Let’s dispel that myth. Self-care is not a luxury, nor is it self-indulgence; it is a professional responsibility. Without it, the very individuals we aim to support could suffer as we struggle to function at our best.
The Importance of Self-Care in Relationship-Intense Work
Dr. Charles Figley, an expert on compassion fatigue, describes the intense cost of caring as the gradual erosion of empathy and resilience when self-care is neglected. In The Resilient Practitioner by Skovholt & Trotter-Mathison (2016), the authors emphasize that self-care is foundational to long-term sustainability in these roles. Practitioners who fail to recharge risk burnout, reduced effectiveness, and even physical health problems over time.
Research also underscores the physiological benefits of self-care. Practices like mindfulness, regular physical activity, and adequate sleep lower cortisol levels and combat the effects of chronic stress. This is particularly important in fields where toxic stress or secondary trauma is a constant occupational hazard (Burke-Harris, 2018).
Two Key Pieces of Advice for Beginning a Self-Care Routine
- Start Small and Be Consistent
Self-care doesn’t have to be time-consuming or expensive. Begin with small, manageable habits like taking five minutes each morning to meditate or stepping outside for fresh air during lunch breaks. Regularity is the key! These brief moments can have a cumulative impact on mental and physical well-being. - Set Boundaries
One of the most effective forms of self-care is learning to say "no" when your plate is full. Establishing boundaries at work and in personal life allows you to protect your energy for what matters most. As Skovholt & Trotter-Mathison note, developing a “yes-and-no muscle” is essential to prevent overcommitment and depletion.
Reframing Self-Care
Far from selfish, self-care is a commitment to being the best version of yourself for those who depend on you. As the saying goes, “You can’t pour from an empty cup.” By incorporating self-care into your routine, you’re not only preserving your own well-being but also ensuring that you can continue to show up with energy, empathy, and effectiveness in your role.
Whether you’re just entering the field or a seasoned practitioner, consider self-care an essential part of your professional toolkit. You and those you serve deserve nothing less.
References
Burke-Harris, N. (2018). The Deepest Well: Healing the Long-Term Effects of Childhood Adversity.
Figley, C. R. (1995). Compassion Fatigue: Coping with Secondary Traumatic Stress Disorder in Those Who Treat the Traumatized.
Skovholt, T. M., & Trotter-Mathison, M. (2016). The Resilient Practitioner: Burnout Prevention and Self-Care Strategies for Counselors, Therapists, Teachers, and Health Professionals (3rd ed.).
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