What is self-care and why are we starting to hear more and more about it?

To clear up a common misconception, self-care is not splurging on lavish items or sneaking off to the spa for the day. Self-care is not being “selfish;” it’s finding ways to take care for yourself and to ensure:

• you are strong and healthy enough to care for others when needed;
• you can show up to your job in the best physical and mental state; and
• you’re able to accomplish all that you need to in a day.

The World Health Organization defines self-care as “the ability of individuals, families, and communities to promote health, prevent disease, maintain health, and cope with illness and disability with or without the support of a health care worker.” Taking care of your emotional health needs are as equally important as taking care of your nutrition, physical hygiene, and seeking medical care when needed.

• Still unsure of the benefits of self-care and how it can help you? From a national survey conducted by org, the benefits speak for themselves. Here are some statistics to support just how important this mindset is to your mental/physical health: Enhanced self-confidence (64%)
• Increased productivity (67%)
• Happiness (71%)
• Physical health from self-care is shown to reduce heart disease, stroke, and cancer.
• Mental health benefits – clinically proven to reduce or eliminate anxiety and depression, reduce stress, help adapt to change, build strong relationships, and better recover from setbacks.

“Where do I start?” you ask? Setting goals for yourself is a great way to determine which self-care action provides you with the best results. Below are just a few goal ideas to get you started:

• Take care of your physical and psychological health.
• Manager and reduce stress.
• Recognize your emotional needs.
• Foster and sustain relationships.
• Achieve balance in different areas of your life.

Below are free resources for extra support and connection:

• Build Your Self-Care Plan (Right Direction)
• Free Online Depression Test (Mental Health America)
• Mindfulness and Relaxation Toolkit
• Mental Health 101 (Mental Health America)
• What to Expect When You Start Counseling
• 12 Ways to Take Better Care of Yourself (Psychology Today)

Below are the training sessions available in February.

All Employees – All Training Times are 12 – 1 P.M. MST

• February 11: Avoiding Burnout: Self-Assessment Methods & Strategies for Self-Care
• February 12: Mindfulness: Being Present in Your Work and Life
• February 13: Virtual Coffee with Ann (EAP Manager) – What to Expect from Counseling
  • NOTE: You will need to create your own calendar notice for this training
• February 26: Loving You . . . . Boosting Self-Esteem and Acceptance

Management-Focused Training Courses – All Training Times are 12 – 1 P.M. MST

February 19: Coaching vs Directing: A Guide for Leaders

                                               MANAGERS CORNER

• On-Demand, Free Trainings – Accessible 24/7
• Training Catalog – Contact eap@mt.gov for group training (free)
• Critical Incident Support – Request for an on-site counselor
• Confidential Management Consultations – Support tailored to YOU!
• Psychological Safety in the Workplace

                     Call GuidanceResources 844-506-5374  (New Phone Number!)