Working with people who have experienced sexual assault or domestic and family violence is extremely demanding work. It is quite normal to have a range of responses both positive and negative to the work. Being aware of the potential impact of this work on your own wellbeing and taking steps to minimise the negative impacts are important strategies of self-care.
Self-care broadly refers to a range of personal and professional skills and behaviours that contribute your wellbeing and the maintenance of effective performance at work and in your personal life.
Self-care can be considered in terms of:
There can be a range of potential negative outcomes from working with people who have experienced violence. These can include but are not limited to:
Factors that increase the risk of for professionals of being negatively impacted can include:
It is important to understand the possible risk factors and look at implementing strategies that support your wellbeing at work and in your personal life. If you are able to maintain your wellbeing you will be more effective in your work and in your personal life and relationships.