Posted by Vargas Consulting and Wellness on January 12, 2024

As a social worker over twenty years, I can tell you that it’s a rewarding and demanding career. I have worked in various fields. I worked in child welfare, worked with adoptive families, a mentor, coach and as a therapist. There are many times when you love the work you do. Your able to see the differences you make in someone’s life as well as you get a sense of pride for helping. But, there are times that being a social worker is completely stressful. One thing I have learned is that practicing self care is important. Here are some ways you can practice self care as a social worker. 

*Leave work at work. Because we really love the work we do and want to do a good job, we get sucked into working all of the time. We think that we will just answer one more phone call or respond to that last email. When we do this, we do not allow ourselfves to rest. I recommend turning off your cell phone off once you leave work. Start preparing for your end of the day about 30 minutes before your day ends. Write out a to do list of things you need to do the following day.

*Check out all of the resources/benefits your job offers. Sometimes we only focus on our paycheck. But many places of employment. offers other programs such as EAP Programs, coaching, mentorships, paying for trainings and other opportunities. Take advantage of these benefits.

*Use your breaks and lunch hours to refresh. Consider taking a walk around your building or eating away from your desk.

*Communicate your needs with your boss. If you need help or to be trained, be sure to speak up for yourself. 

*Spend time with friends and family. Spending time with others is amazing. It can turn a difficult day into a manageable day when you go on a walk or eat lunch with a co-worker. It’s great to have someone to vent to and maybe even receive good advice. 

*Take time off away from work. You earned your vacation days, take the time off to relax. Research shows that many Americans leave never take their vacation days off, leaving them to go to waste.