1) As a peer supporter, oftentimes, i am faced with questions like, "am i doing enough", "how else can i help my clients", "how do i sit with the feelings of overwhelm that some of my clients happen to bring to me". I discuss them in supervision sessions & use the insights in my sessions. 2) Maintaining healthy boundaries is quintessential, both personally & professionally. Hanging out with people that drain can take a toll on you as well as your job. 3) Exploring different ways of filling my own cup. It could be spending time in nature, pursuing a hobby, playing with my pet, cooking sth. for myself etc. 4) Practicing 7 types of rest whenever possible, including physical, mental, emotional, social, spiritual, sensory & creative rest.

Self-care while supporting others can be a real challenge, especially for personality types that are pleasers (something I am very familiar with). Through my experience, there is much more satisfaction in genuinely being able to support others rather than 'tick box' supporting. This high quality support comes when we are healthy and fit ourselves, as lack of sleep, exhaustion, etc tends to lead to disregulation, which in turn affects quality of support. In order to maintain self care as a peer supporter, the key is to create time in between support for others to provide support to yourself. Always include yourself in your list of people to support, so you can address any challenges, replenish your energy and maintain a healthy mindset.

Mi tiempo es mío y de nadie más, Me ha resultado útil, alejarme en una situación de crisis emocional en él trabajo por respeto a mi clientes, compañía y trabajo. Porque ellos merecen la mejor versión de mi. Así que pido a un compañero de forma discreta que me auxilie, para darle la mejor experiencia a mi cliente. Cuando me recupero, inmediatamente me incorporo a la gestión que tenía y cerrar cualquier trato o tarea que tenia pendiente.

To prevent burnout as a peer supporter, I set clear boundaries on my availability and workload to avoid overextending myself. I prioritize self-care by taking breaks, exercising, and engaging in hobbies. After intense sessions, I debrief with colleagues to process my emotions. I stay mindful of signs of compassion fatigue and take action when needed. I maintain emotional distance while staying empathetic, and I refer clients to other resources when appropriate. Lastly, I balance my work and personal life by making time for relationships and relaxation.

Self-care can be difficult to embrace, especially when you're deeply dedicated to prioritizing the needs of others. As a recovering people pleaser unlearning unhealthy habits, here are some truths that have helped me cultivate a more balanced lifestyle. Be gentle with yourself when the shadow of burnout looms—it’s a chance to recognize the warning signs, plan ahead, and seek the shelter of self-TLC before it takes a toll. Grounding yourself by accepting care and support from those around you is essential, particularly when you're constantly pouring into others. Make sure there's enough left in your cup for you at the end of each day!

Recognize and respect the boundary between you and the other person. Even if you have “been there” you aren’t there now, stay objective as a protective factor. Decompress after with a health activity supporting your values and needs.

It's imperative you make deliberate and non-negotiable time for personal care. It may be in small tangible increments (walk around the block @10am -10:15 am every day/gym M-Th 6p-6:30p)... simple as uninterrupted tea time, or anything which stimulates endorphins while eliminating the visual cues of stress in the environment.

Keeping our cups full, or at least not letting them run too low matters if we are to maintain capacity to support others, whether in peer supporter role, as friend or parent. I fill my cup with music, comedy, great company, walks in parks or by river, even binge watching shows I sometimes find restful. How do you recharge? Do you make enough time to recharge? (If you have experienced trauma, your usual capacity can be compromised. Self care often means seeking support from friends, family, counselling or psychologist)