It is well known that stress and exposure to trauma can lead to burnout, caregiver fatigue, retention challenges, physical and mental unwellness. We know that workers in the human service field are suffering and are at risk, especially in this present-day climate.

There is significant evidence supporting the positive effects of mindfulness and self-compassion on mental and physical health, including lasting decreases in physical and psychological symptoms; greater ability to cope with stress; greater cognitive capacity; improved mood and energy. 

Kristin Neff and Christopher Germer, developed the evidence-based Mindful Self-Compassion program, recognizing that we often neglect to have compassion for ourselves especially while being of service to others. 

Research has shown that self-compassion greatly enhances emotional wellbeing. It boosts happiness, reduces anxiety and depression, and can even help maintain healthy lifestyle habits such as diet and exercise. Being both mindful and compassionate leads to greater ease and well-being in our daily lives. (Neff and Germer, self-compassion.org)

By staying connected to themselves and being mindful of their empathic distress, clinicians can acknowledge how difficult it can be to witness and listen to another’s suffering and can allow for self-kindness during these difficult moments. Self-compassion also allows a clinician to recognize and meet their own needs so that they can sustain the ability to be present and available for others. Hategan et al. Humanism and Resilience in Residency Training (2020) p.66

During these sessions, participants will learn skills that can be used on the job and to provide a safe space for self-compassion topics to be explored. 

As participants of this program, there is an opportunity to develop a sense of community and shared experience that will be developed and sustained.  As participants learn these skills and increase their own sense of well-being, they may offer support to other colleagues ultimately impacting the overall culture of care. In turn, this culture shift will impact the care given to the service users being served.

Participants will learn practical strategies to address compassion fatigue and increase resilience.

NOTE: This is an interactive, virtual workshop, which is different from a webinar. Participants will be expected to participate through voice and video, and to engage with each other and the facilitator in large and small group discussions.