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• “ I surround myself with a great bunch of supportive , fun , caring and loving teammates that ‘ get it .’ We support each other very well and ask for help when we need it . M * A * S * H humor sometimes gets us through a lot of challenging times .”
• “ I ask for hugs from favorite people here at work . I even seek them out when needed . It ’ s usually a mutually beneficial hug .”
• “ On really hard days , I take time for a real ‘ break ’ or lunch , perhaps walk outside for fresh air . Even taking a 15-minute walk around the neighborhood can provide a better perspective .”
• “ When I physically leave work , I also emotionally leave work and find things to do that will recharge me such as a Yoga class or a massage .”
Bishop ’ s colleague Maria Gore , MSW , Clinical Counselor , adds her tips :
• “ I go home and snuggle with my animals and allow myself to shed the tears of the day in their loving presence .”
• “ I start my morning with a long walk with my dog and spend time thinking about all the things I am grateful for , even if it is just that I am healthy and my dog is healthy enough to be on this walk . For me , it ’ s a good way to start the day grounded .”
• “ I laugh and cry together with my work team . Building a strong and supportive team has to be one of the most significant ways we can avoid burnout or compassion fatigue .”
As Bishop sums it up : “ When we learn to first care for ourselves , we ' re better able to care for our clients and patients who rely on us .”