As a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC), you are doing very emotionally demanding work that is so rewarding, but it can take a toll on you. Counselor burnout is not something you want to face, but it might happen due to the nature of your work.
You are constantly putting others before yourself, but when was the last time you checked up on yourself first?
Burnout can creep in when your workload begins to build up. If this happens, take a moment to step back. Needing a break is not a sign of weakness; it means you are human and listening to your body. During our Self-Care Summer, we want to ensure that we prevent burnout and take a moment to check in with you, because you must care for yourself before you can care for others.
What Burnout Can Look Like for a Rehabilitation Counselor
Burnout can be more than just feeling tired and drained. Physical and mental exhaustion can build up, and sometimes you may not even notice it. Emotionally, burnout can look like exhaustion, a negative attitude toward work, lack of motivation, frustration, or feelings of being overwhelmed. Physically, you may experience fatigue, difficulty sleeping, changes in appetite, headaches, or muscle tension. Behaviorally, you might find yourself procrastinating, isolating from friends and family, feeling anxiety or self-doubt, using substances, or having difficulty concentrating. If any of that feels like it is happening to you, you’re not alone. Burnout is common, but it doesn’t have to last forever.
Ways to Recharge – A Little Goes a Long Way!
You don’t have to have a total life reset to be able to recharge. Small shifts can have a significant impact on overcoming burnout.
Here are some ways to start recharging:
- Take small breaks to step outside or stretch
- Prioritize sleep
- Engage in relaxing activities
- Stress management techniques
- Learn to say no
- Communicating with a friend, colleague, or therapist
- Do things that make you feel good
Being a counselor doesn’t mean that you don’t have feelings of your own. Even counselors may need a counselor, and that doesn’t take away your ability to care for others. Honestly, it serves as a good reminder to others that seeking help is normal.
This summer, take a moment to slow down a bit and reconnect with yourself. You deserve the same care you give to others.
Explore courses on self-care and self-compassion at CRCC eUNIVERSITY.
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