Working as a mental health professional can be described as rewarding, exuberating, encouraging and self-satisfying. It can be described as mind-blowing as the picture above illustrates, but also tedious, exhausting and overwhelming. I wanted to write this blog post to share tips with my colleagues and those in our industry so that we can take care of ourselves, while helping others.
As a mental health professional, it is important to remember that you are working on the frontlines during the COVID-19 pandemic. You are continuously providing encouragement to the clients and communities that we serve daily. YOU ARE A HERO!!! Give yourself credit for being a selfless individual who provides guidance and strength for others – even when you are dealing with fears in your own life. We often forget that as mental health professionals we are HUMANS with FEELINGS and everyday stressors. We too need to utilize ways to cope.
Here are a few tips that I have learned from other mental health professionals to help me during this unprecedented time.
- If conducting a telehealth session via telephone go for a walk to promote self-care and get some natural Vitamin D.
- Smile more. Not only does it decrease wrinkles, but it also promotes dopamine in our bodies, that is the feel-good hormone.
- If you have children or pets, spend intentional time providing them with attention. Do not worry about anything else.
- Speak positivity into your day. Self-prophecy can be very rewarding (e.g. I will have a good day today. I will not have any cancellations or no-shows today. My hair will stay the way it needs to for this telehealth session, etc.)
- Complete an activity you have always wanted to do. Pace yourself at the beginning of your day and at the end of your day.
Now, that we’ve learned some new tips for the week. I hope that your mind has been blown—in the best way! Thank you for all you do!
Chrishanna Reed, MS, is a Multi-Systemic Therapist at CHRIS Counseling Center- Gwinnett.
To make an appointment or to learn more about our services, visit CHRIS180.org/counselingcenters
