Self-Care Strategies
Self-care is a priority for all educators. The first step to self-care is to be aware of the signs of secondary traumatic stress.
- Some symptoms include: irritability, impatience with students, difficulty planning lessons or activities, decreased concentration, denying trauma impacts students, or dreams about students’ trauma.
- The next tip is not to go it alone. Educators often internalize the trauma of their students and keep it bottled up. Get support from co-workers, family, and friends.
- Recognize that secondary traumatic stress or compassion fatigue is a part of the profession. It is an occupational hazard.
- Seek help for your own trauma. Counseling may be for you. Most educators have health insurance. Ask your medical insurance plan representative how much coverage you’re eligible for private counseling.
- Begin to live healthier. Eat healthy foods and exercise. Have fun with family and friends. Sometimes take a break during the school day. Don’t be ashamed to cry. Have a good laugh.
Closing
The effects of secondary traumatic stress on educators is a reality. It must be recognized and taken seriously. School districts have the opportunity to be innovative providing support to teachers and staff members.
Resources
The National Child Traumatic Stress Network
International Society for Traumatic Stress
A Teacher’s Experience With Vicarious Trauma by Alex Shevrin Venet, Edutopia, March 21, 2018
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