In an effort to avoid burnout and/or compassion fatigue I find it necessary to stay on top of my self-care and communicate with my support system, which includes my wife, mom, brother, and therapist. I also ensure that I remove myself from the space I was offering support once the time is over so that I may take a break and refresh. It is important to have boundaries set and to maintain them for your professional and personal life. Taking on too much can lead to a decline in the quality of care - it is imperative that we rest, ask for help, and be kind to ourselves.

Set firm boundaries and make sure stick to them. It is equally important to have a solid self care regime. You must make sure you take care of yourself first

Self-care, Set aside time out of the system if it's becoming overwhelming and Supervision and debriefing for yourself. Find fun activities for you and those close to you.

Most of the time I find peer support mutual and I benefit from the connection 🌱 If I do feel drained, my self care is probably lacking and I likely would benefit from a walk or a nap! 😴

I always feel emotionally exhausted, and drained immediately after a peer support session. My follow-ups with the supported person usually help that in the short term. In the long term I fall back on the same tools I suggest to peers. Getting good sleep, sticking with my routine, time with family, and if those don't work then leaning on my peer support team is a saving grace. We've all been in the same place as the people we support. We know how to avoid burnout and compassion fatigue. We just have to recognize it in ourselves and be proactive to stay in front of it.