#64: Why We Neglect Self-Care: Unpacking the Causes and Solutions
OVERVIEW
In episode 6 of our 6-part series for the So You Work in Aged Care podcast, we discuss the importance of self-care for those working in aged care, and share strategies and tips to help you incorporate wellbeing practices and routines into your day.
There are a range of reasons why we may struggle to practise self-care regularly. For some, taking the time to stop and rest is challenging, especially when it feels like we have so much to do. For the empaths among us, we can give so much in our work, and then feel too drained to devote the time to care for ourselves. And for others, it can just be hard to know where to start. While I am not amazing at self-care myself, and I understand the juggle of work and family life, it is something I actively work on, and continue to advocate as essential to wellbeing for everyone, particularly those who work in aged care.
An example of a situation where self-care is so important is shared in our ‘what’s trending’ section, where an aged care worker experienced the death of five clients within two weeks.
KEY TOPICS
Where to start? [4:21]
When it comes to self-care, getting started can be hard, but remember, it is not always about bubble baths and holidays. Think about what you can do for yourself, for just a few minutes a day, to create a little bit of space. It doesn’t need to be complicated. It could be as simple as a walk, going to bed early, eating a healthy meal … just creating some regular moments for your own health and wellbeing. Start small, start easy, start by doing something that is sustainable and fits within your routine.
Feeling uncomfortable with rest [10:25]
This is something I’ve been guilty of, even before I had kids, where I found it difficult to stop. I always felt like I should be doing something. This is particularly true when you work for yourself. If you feel like you don’t have a moment to spare, think about what you can outsource. For me, I’ve outsourced a few tasks, like producing the podcast, invoicing and bookkeeping. Some of those I could do, but they would take me a long time, so by outsourcing I have more time available for me. Being clear about what you can outsource, and what you must do yourself, can help you make the best use of your time.
Empath and people pleasing [15:08]
It is highly likely if you are working in aged care or home care that you are an empath, and you invest a lot of your energy in looking after other people. Knowing those professional boundaries and recognising where you might be stretching yourself too thin, and might be giving too much of yourself away is important. Otherwise you can feel drained, not just physically from completing the practical tasks involved in your job, but also emotionally. Look for those emotional leaks, and consider some strategies to combat these. This could be taking a moment after seeing those clients who you are emotionally invested in, to allow yourself time to emotionally disengage.
What is trending? [17:16]
This week, I wanted to share some correspondence I received from someone who has been working in aged care for eight years, and who recently experience five of her clients pass away within two weeks. As I have mentioned in previous episodes, having some strategies, habits or routines for when someone in your care dies, can be helpful to acknowledge your grief. This can be either within your workplace, such as a memorial, or within your own home, where you buy some flowers or light a candle. Debrief with others if possible, either your colleagues, a mentor, supervisor or mental health professional. Speaking to a professional doesn’t mean there is anything wrong with you; it’s about having that time to acknowledge that the psychological load of your work is high. It’s normal to feel sad when someone dies, and if you have been working long hours it can feel even harder.
Can I afford self-care [21:54]
The financial aspects of self-care can make it seem out of reach – but it does not need to be at the luxury end to be effective, such as facials, manicures or a massage. Everyday practices that are sustainable are likely to be more beneficial in the long run. Self-care does not need to be expensive or take a lot of time. It could be having a mental health day, where you go to the beach, on a bushwalk, or eat healthy food. Finding little strategies that help you, fit within your routine and are related to your own interests is key. It could be going to bed half an hour earlier, getting up earlier and doing a meditation or getting out for a walk. Finding those moments, and being mindful about how you spend your time is what self-care is all about.
CONNECT
COMING SOON
Resilient Worker – new workshop coming soon
Our new workshop will cover the burning issues affecting aged care workers today. Head to our website to find out more – Resilient Worker
