Schools
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Self-Care
Educators serving at-risk populations exposed to trauma often experience an emotional and physical toll known as vicarious trauma or compassion fatigue. In order to offset the effects of vicarious trauma and reduce risk of burnout, it is important for staff members to engage in self-care practices.
Self-Care includes all of the things you do to take care of your physical, mental, and emotional well-being
Some examples include:
• Eat regular nutritious meals
• Exercise regularly
• Turn off all electronics
• Get enough sleep
• Spend time with family and friends
• Keep work and family life separate
• Learn how to say “no” to extra responsibilities
• Practice deep breathing
Links and Handouts
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Beyond Kale and Pedicures: Can we Beat Burnout and Compassion Fatigue?
How to Build a Culture of Good Health,
Professional Quality of Life Scale
Psychological First Aid: PFA for Ourselves,
Secondary Traumatic Stress and Self-Care Resources:
Secondary Traumatic Stress: A Fact Sheet for Child-Serving Professionals
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Books
Fried: Why you Burn Out and How to Revive by Joan Borysenko, Ph.D.
The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business by Charles Duhigg
Trauma-Stewardship: An Everyday Guide to Carling for Self While Caring for Others by Laura Van Dernoot Lipsky and Connie Burk
Apps
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Self-Care Apps
If after implementing self-care you still find yourself feeling irritable, tired, withdrawn, and/or overwhelmed, seeking counseling or therapy can be helpful. Going to therapy does not mean that something is “wrong” with you. It shows initiative over your personal health and well-being.
All LAUSD educators with District health benefits may access counseling services with their medical plan.
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