Vicarious trauma and my own mental health?

Hi @Queenie I worked in domestic violence for a couple of years - both working with women and children. I found it helpful for myself to try to sit 'outside' those affected - to not internalise other's experiences and definitely not compare them to my own. Having been in similar situations as the clients defintiely made me more empathetic and I could relate to what they were going through without becoming involved in their journey apart from listening and referring them to other appropriate services. I worked in crisis care so was often the first port of call for these women - the most important thing was to let them know that they were believed, heard and would be helped. All of that you can do by looking at the 'problem' as a series of steps - ie. listen, identify what is needed first (such as accommodation) and work with the client to put those steps in place for them.

Detachment from the 'issue' is hard to do but also necessary to work in this field - and self-care is super important. You are not able to help others if you are not looking after yourself first.

Hi @Queenie

I’m sorry to hear that you have been feeling exhausted and that the voices have flared up. It sounds like you know what might be causing it, which is good on the one hand, although tricky when it feels like you are unable to avoid the causes without stepping back from your studies which I can see you are committed to and passionate about.

I think balance is really important in caring type roles. I wonder if you could tweak the balance a little so that there is more time for you? This might mean less time for study, but course coordinators can be very understanding (at least in my experience) and are usually willing to grant extensions or work around anything that is happening for you at the time. That might be enough to take some of the pressure off, giving you more time to engage in self-care, at least in the short-term.

It doesn’t sound like you are barking up the wrong tree at all - your passion and desire to help people comes through in your posts here on the forums; and there are often part time opportunities to be found where you could try to keep some of that balance in your work life.

I don't know if I've answered your question exactly...

It sounds like a difficult time @Queenie. Do you have some good support around you?

I have been to the GP about my rising anxiety and depression and she has referred me to a psychologist again under a mental health care plan. I feel kind of silly saying my studies are affecting me though it is, to me, like admitting defeat.

Thanks, @Zoe7 and @Former-Member. I feel a bit more normal knowing it is something that is not so rare. Unfortunately, I cannot cut back my studies, as the course is only offered full-time. Thankfully I'm only in class two days a week and home studies for the rest of the week. The prac will only be one day (but it included in the 100 hours of placement I have to do) and it'll be done. I guess when I have my psychology appointment tomorrow evening, I can revisit a self-care plan with her.

Just making the appointment with your gp and doing a MHCP is self-care @Queenie - you are in no way admitting defeat - quite the opposite - you have identified a problem are are tackling it head-on

We all have things in our lives that affect us in different ways - and what is affecting you now is very real. I hope once you see the psychologist they will help you with some skills for yourself that will enable you to get through this part of your studies.

...and remember I am planning a HUGE graduation party for next year - so I have a vested interest in helping you here lol

Thank you @Zoe7 and @Former-Member for validating my feelings. I sincerely am appreciative of your thoughts.

Zoe, I had forgotten about the graduation party (how could I forget that?). I WILL finish my studies don't worry and the party will definitely happen! 😄

Anytime @Queenie - and how could you have forgotten about the party of the century...planning has already begun lol

Can't wait @Zoe7!