What is self-care?
Being aware of your needs, and seeking out activities and resources that will foster health and well-being
It is not being selfish – rather it is promoting your health and well-being.
Focuses on long-term well-being not short-term pleasure
Protects against burnout
Elements of self-care?
Awareness - knowing the risk of burnout and being aware of your personal needs
Balance - spreading your attention across multiple demands of life
Flexibility - adapting to challenges and stressors using reappraisal and emotional regulation.
Physical health - sleep, diet and exercise
Social support - Relationships with colleagues, friends, family, and mental health professionals if required
Spirituality - A sense of being connected to something bigger than yourself
Caveat of Self-Care and Wellness
Be careful not to put all the responsibility of the individual
Cultural, socio-economic and systemic pressures may influence their ability to maintain a level of self-care