Self-Care

Burnout, a “psychological syndrome” characterized by exhaustion, indifference, and inefficiency that can develop after exposure to chronic work stress (Maslach et al., 2001, p. 399), is common among the social work profession because of taxing working conditions (Ravalier et al., 2021). Oncology social workers can have particularly high rates of burnout because they often form close relationships with patients and witness them suffering the negative outcomes of cancer (Lalliehorn et al., 2021; Yi et al., 2018).

Self-Care

"Self-care" is a common phrase heard and practice encouraged in the social work profession due to high possibilities of burnout, secondary trauma, and stress from the work social workers do.

Self-care are activities and measures people take to proactively address stress or burnout and include physical, emotional, and spiritual wellness.

Self-care can be whatever you need to help decrease stress from working, create healthy boundaries, and give yourself time to enjoy activities that bring you happiness.

Common Self-Care Practices

Meditation and yoga
Spending time with family and friends
Pet therapy
Connecting with nature and being outside
Exposure to art and music
Exercise and healthy eating
Quality sleep of 7 to 9 hours each night
Reading and journaling

Click here for Self-Care Resources.

Tips Specific for Oncology Social Workers

Cancer is very prevalent and chances are you, as an oncology social worker, are personally impacted by cancer. It is important to be aware of any possible countertransference issues you may have with your patients and to process these thoughts and concerns in your own therapy or supervision sessions.

Often times in a medical setting, our supervisors or directors are not oncology social workers. They may be people with nursing, medical, or business backgrounds and may not understand the complexities of oncology social work and burnout. It is best practice to pursue outside supervision and support from another oncology social worker, even if you have to pay for the supervision.

Developing or participating in peer supervision groups with other oncology social workers can also be helpful for guidance in an oncology setting. Peer supervision groups can increase your support network and create opportunities to meet with experienced oncology social workers. With the option of virtual meetings, you can connect with oncology social workers throughout your state, or even the country.