9 Ways I Preserve My Passion for Therapy and Avoid Burnout

Beyond Burnout

Photo by Samantha Gades on Unsplash

In my experience, therapists are some of the most passionate people around! Fuelled by curiosity and a never-ending desire to support others, we love the work we do. We strive to empathise with our clients, promote personal growth, and make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.

To do this, we constantly use ourselves psychologically and emotionally. It’s the only way we can deliver effective therapy, create meaningful connections, and facilitate growth. It’s also part of sitting with people’s vulnerability, suffering and varying emotional states. It’s how we listen and hold their stories, plan treatment, analyse and figure things out.

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Burnout – Know the Risks

In 2019, the World Health Organisation (WHO) recognised ‘burnout’ as an ‘occupational phenomenon’. A state of physical and emotional exhaustion, burnout occurs when you experience long-term stress in your job, or when you’ve worked in a physically or emotionally draining role for a long time. This is why therapists are so at risk.

Although it’s probably unrealistic to maintain enthusiasm at a consistent high, avoiding burnout and preserving our passion for the work we do should be part of our business strategy. You wouldn’t neglect the tools and software you use to run your business, so you shouldn’t neglect yourself.

9 Ways I Preserve My Passion for Therapy and Avoid Burnout