Self-Care for the Care-Giver

Counseling and Psychological Services

University Center, Ste 109

381-2574 counseling@utpa.edu

http://www.utpa.edu/counseling

Why is Self-Care Important?

• Joys and Hazards of Work

• Prevent Burn-Out– Disillusionment, Disinterest, Fatigue– Can effect relationships, health, feelings of

self-worth, your academic and professional performance

• Maintain Professional/Academic and Personal Self with Self-Care

Adopt Your Mantra

• Cheerleading statements to help you during the tough times– I don’t complain, I train.– Just a bit further.– I can do this.– This is going to pass.– Breathe.– I can take care of this.– I’m never given more than I can handle.

Body’s Reaction to Stress

• Fight or Flight Response

• Adrenaline, heart

rate, breathing ↑

• Higher cognitive

functioning ↓

Deep Breathing Revisited

• 3 sec to inhale, pause, 3 sec to exhale

• Fill your stomach like a balloon

• Slightly smile, relax your face

• Imagine the anxiety wash over you like the waves of the ocean on the beach

Meditation while…

► Walking ► Cleaning ► Eating

Live a Balanced Life

Live a Balanced Life

• Family pressures– or, How to be

assertive with your time and keep the love of your family at the same time

Relax

• Gardening• Reading for

pleasure• Journaling• Arts and crafts• Exercise • Relaxation

exercises– Progressive muscle– Guided imagery

Sometimes simply relaxing is not enough…

• Depression• Anxiety Disorders• Substance Abuse• Learning Disorders• Eating Disorders• Relational Problems• Family Conflicts• Loss/Bereavement• Other Mental Health

Issues

Counseling and Psychological Services

University Center, Ste 109381-2574 counseling@utpa.edu

http://www.utpa.edu/counseling

• Individual Counseling• Nursing Support Group

– Weekly beginning Tuesday, August 25 from Noon to 1:00 PM

call, e-mail, or walk-in for an individual appointment or to inquire about the support group