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