Taking care of the caregiver- dealing with stress and burnout- test3 Flashcards
- Recognize that you are working in an area of car where the risks for burnout is high.
- Create periods or rest and renewal
- Be compassionate with yourself about not being perfect
- Set limits and alleviate stress you can do something about
- learn time management skills
- Cultivate a personal support network
- Understand your motivation for working in funeral service
- Develop healthy eating, sleeping and exercise patterns
- Identify ways in which your body informs you that you are stressed.
The American Board of Funeral Service Education (ABFSE) recommendations for reducing stress
It helps to share concerns with someone who is trusted and respected. Talking things out with someone helps in a couple of ways. It is a type of release and someone else may help you see a different side of the problem. If the preoccupation becomes obsessive, the help of a professional counselor may be needed.
Talk about worries
Perfection is an unrealistic goal for anyone. It will keep you in a constant state of stress.
Realize that you and others are not perfect
Being preoccupied with what will happen in the future can really negatively affect your living today. Stay in the moment.
Control your “what if” scenario
Remember that no one can do it all.
Delegate some responsibility and authority
Keep a log. If you can, avoid stressors, if you can’t- learn to modify your reaction (for example, by relaxing before you confront them).
Identify stressors in your life
What you think, you believe. Give yourself positive mental images.
Control your mental confrontations
Holding it in can cause you to let it grow out of control. But do it in a constructive way- chew someone out if you have to, but in private, not in front of others. If your anger was misdirected or out of proportion, admit it to those you blew up at.
If necessary, blow off steam.
This does wonders for releasing tension, improving self-esteem, and improving your health. Whether it is walking, jogging, aerobics, or swimming, exercise regularly.
Perform some type of physical activity
Or take a hot sauna or steam bath. This is especially good when combined with physical exercise and a relaxation technique.
Try soaking in a hot bath.
These include deep breathing, biofeedback, self-hypnosis, progressive relaxation, and fantasy imagery.
Use one or more relaxation techniques daily.
Counselors can need counseling also.
Talk with another counselor
You cannot change others - you can only change how you relate to others.
You are not a magician
Give them support, encouragement, and praise. Learn to accept their support in return.
Be attentive to other staff members who are working with the bereaved.
To feel happiness at times.
You are permitted