How do you keep calm?

[1400spincycle]

I was hoping to ask any of you who might work in an emotionally challenging environment how you manage your MH?

If you work with children in difficult circumstances how do you stop yourself getting sucked right in? I’ve just started a new role and am really enjoying it but unfortunately I have suffered from anxiety in the past and now I find its come galloping back 😞.

Any tips gratefully recieved.

bump

I think some is down to personality and can’t be changed but I’m fairly bombproof and have become more so,over the years.
Working on a children’s intensive care unit certainly helped me develop a calm exterior. I think focusing on the needs of the children and families more than my own feelings helped. Knowing what I was doing and ensuring I was competent or admit my limitations was another.

Compartmentalising and keeping work at work is good - it allows switching off, which builds resilience. You can rarely do anything when you’re in a wine bar so not much point dwelling on things. Understanding the sun will still come up tomorrow and that we can’t cant solve very problem helps.

Having good relationships that provide support when necessary without creating a dependency and ‘poor me’ culture helps. True support helps people find solutions and encourages survival rather than agreeing and magnifying distress.

Thanks Cherry, I was afraid it might be a personality thing. perhaos I’m not cut out for this long term? Also I struggle with the leaving it at the door as I do about half my hours at home and so am constantly surrounded by it. I am going to work on the compartmentalising though, would certainly help.