Hey there,
I really appreciate you sharing this. It takes a lot of courage to open up about what you’re feeling, especially in a field where you’re expected to be the one helping others. I can only imagine how heavy that burden must feel at times.
The first thing that comes to my mind is how important it is to recognize that you’re not alone in this. I’ve seen many people in the mental health field face similar struggles, and it can be incredibly difficult to find that balance between supporting others and keeping your own mental well-being intact. It’s like walking a tightrope, isn’t it?
When you mention feeling overwhelmed, what do you think is the biggest source of that pressure for you? Sometimes just identifying it can be a good first step toward finding a strategy that works. Have you found any small practices that help you decompress after a tough day? I know for me, even something as simple as going for a walk or spending a few minutes with a good book can make a difference.
Also, it’s great that you’ve tried talking to your colleagues. Do you think there’s a way to create a more supportive environment among your team? Maybe even starting a regular check-in could open the door for more honest conversations about what you all are experiencing.
It’s really admirable that you want to prioritize your mental health while helping others. Remember, it’s okay to take a step back and focus on yourself—doing so doesn’t make you any less effective in your
That sounds really challenging, and I want you to know that you’re not alone in feeling this way. Working in mental health can be so rewarding, but the emotional weight we carry from others’ experiences can become incredibly heavy. I can relate to that feeling of being overwhelmed, especially when you want to support others while also taking care of yourself.
It’s great that you’ve tried talking to your colleagues; that’s such an important step. Sometimes, though, it can feel like no one really understands the depth of what you’re experiencing. Have you considered reaching out to a supervisor or a mentor in your field? They might have some valuable insights or resources that can help you navigate this.
Another thing that’s worked for me is setting clear boundaries around work. It’s okay to step back and take a break when you need it. You might also want to explore self-care practices that resonate with you, whether that’s journaling, art, or even some kind of physical activity. Those moments can be grounding and help you process what you’re feeling.
Also, have you looked into peer support groups? Sometimes sharing experiences with others in the same field can create a sense of camaraderie and lighten that burden a bit. It’s amazing how much just talking about our feelings can help.
I really admire your dedication to your work, but remember that your mental health is just as important. You deserve to prioritize your well-being, too. Take things one step at a time, and don’t hesitate to
That sounds really challenging, and I want you to know that your feelings are completely valid. Working in the mental health field can be incredibly rewarding but also really heavy, especially when you’re absorbing the pain and struggles of those you’re trying to help. I remember a time early in my own career when I started to feel that weight too; it can be hard to reconcile caring so deeply while trying to maintain your own mental space.
It’s great that you’re recognizing the need to prioritize your own well-being. I think one of the first steps is to really be aware of what specifically drains you. Do you have certain cases or situations that linger with you more than others? Sometimes just identifying those can help in finding ways to cope.
Have you considered practicing some self-care techniques that work for you? Whether it’s mindfulness, journaling, or even just taking time for hobbies that bring you joy, carving out that space for yourself is essential. I found that setting boundaries around my time—whether it’s limiting after-hours work or ensuring I have downtime—was crucial in managing my own mental health.
Also, have you thought about seeking support from a therapist or counselor? I know it can feel like a lot when you’re already in the field, but sometimes having an outside perspective can really help in processing what you’re experiencing. It doesn’t mean you’re weak; it just means you care enough to take the necessary steps to stay healthy and effective in your role.
You’re not alone in this, even if it feels that way
Hey there,
First off, I want to say thank you for opening up about your experience. It really resonates with me because I think many of us in the helping professions know how heavy that weight can feel. Dealing with secondary traumatic stress is no joke, and it’s completely understandable that you’re feeling overwhelmed.
I remember when I first started working in a supportive role, I had a tough time separating my feelings from those of the people I was helping. It’s like you take on their burdens without even realizing it. Finding that balance is definitely a challenge. Have you considered setting aside specific times in your week just for self-care? Even small things, like going for a walk or picking up a hobby that you love, can create those little pockets of relief.
You mentioned talking to your colleagues, which is great. Sometimes, even just having a support group or finding someone you trust who’s been through similar experiences can lighten the load. I also found that journaling can be a helpful outlet to process everything without feeling like you’re carrying it around all the time.
It’s so important to prioritize your mental well-being, especially when you’re in a role where you’re giving so much. Have you explored any professional support for yourself? Therapists who specialize in trauma work can really provide that space to unpack everything you’re feeling.
You’re not alone in this, not at all. It’s brave of you to reach out and seek advice. Just remember, taking care of
I understand how difficult this must be for you. Working in the mental health field is incredibly rewarding, but it can also carry an emotional toll that sneaks up on you. It sounds like you’re really feeling the weight of the stories and experiences of others, and it’s completely valid to feel overwhelmed by that.
I’ve also found that sometimes, just acknowledging how heavy things can feel is a good first step. Have you had a chance to explore any practices that help you decompress, like mindfulness or even just a regular hobby? I’ve found that having something outside of work, like a hobby or a creative outlet, can be really grounding.
Talking to colleagues is a great start, but it can sometimes help to seek out support networks that are more focused on peer support. Have you thought about connecting with other professionals who might be experiencing similar challenges? It might feel less isolating knowing others are navigating the same waters.
Also, it’s essential to give yourself permission to feel what you’re feeling. Finding balance is definitely easier said than done, but small steps—like setting aside time for self-care—can make a difference. What are some things you enjoy doing outside of work that could help fill your cup?
You’re not alone in this, and it’s okay to reach out. I hope you find the support you need, and remember that taking care of yourself isn’t just important for you, but also for those you’re helping. Keep sharing how you’re feeling—it’s such a
I truly understand how difficult this must be for you. At 21, diving into the mental health field is both commendable and tremendously challenging. Carrying the weight of others’ trauma can feel like a heavy backpack that just won’t come off, can’t it?
It sounds like you’re really aware of the importance of self-care, but finding the balance between supporting others and looking after yourself can be such a tough tightrope to walk. I remember when I was in my early career, feeling that pressure, too. Sometimes, it can feel like you’re in a room filled with people but still feel isolated in your struggles. Have you considered setting aside a little time each week specifically for your own mental health? Even if it’s just a walk in the park or some quiet time with a book, small moments can really help create a buffer against that overwhelming feeling.
Talking to colleagues is a great first step, but it can also be helpful to reach out to someone outside of work, like a mentor or a therapist. Sharing with someone who isn’t directly involved can give you a fresh perspective and a safe space to unload a bit. I’m also curious if you’ve found any specific coping strategies that resonate with you. Sometimes even simple things like journaling or mindfulness can offer some relief, but everyone’s journey is unique.
It’s really admirable that you’re seeking advice and support. Do you have any local resources or support groups that you might explore? I think it’s so important to remember
Hey there! Your post really resonates with me. It’s tough being on the front lines of mental health and feeling that weight, especially at such a young age. I remember when I first started in a similar field; I thought I could carry everyone’s burdens without it affecting me. Spoiler alert: it did.
It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed with the heaviness of others’ experiences. The fact that you’re aware of your own mental health needs is already a huge step in the right direction. It sounds like you’re doing a lot of good work, but it’s crucial to remember that self-care isn’t selfish—it’s necessary.
Have you considered setting some boundaries around emotional exposure? I found that taking breaks and scheduling “me time” helped a lot. Sometimes it means stepping away from the heavier conversations when you can or even establishing a ritual after work to decompress. Whether it’s hitting the gym, going for a walk, or just listening to music, those little moments can make a significant difference.
Talking with colleagues is great, but it might also be helpful to connect with someone outside of work—a therapist or a support group specifically for those in the mental health field. It can be freeing to share your feelings with people who truly understand what you’re going through without the same workplace ties.
You’re definitely not alone in this, even when it feels that way. It’s brave of you to reach out. If you ever want to chat more about what you’re experiencing or share ideas on how to cope
I really appreciate you sharing this because it takes a lot of courage to open up about what you’re experiencing. I can only imagine how heavy it must feel to carry the trauma of others on your shoulders, especially at such a young age in your career. I remember when I was in my twenties, I had a similar experience working in a field that often dealt with difficult emotions and situations.
It’s tough to find that balance between helping others and taking care of yourself. Honestly, I think many of us in mental health or caregiving roles have been there at some point. The weight of other people’s stories can really accumulate, and it’s so important to acknowledge that feeling. You’re not alone in this, even if it sometimes feels like it.
Have you had a chance to explore different self-care strategies? I found that talking to colleagues didn’t always help me, either, especially when everyone is dealing with their own stresses. Sometimes, finding a mentor or a therapist who understands the unique challenges of our work can make a world of difference. They can provide a safe space to process what you’re feeling without judgment.
Also, I’ve learned that setting boundaries is crucial. It’s okay to step back when you need to recharge. You can’t pour from an empty cup, right? Taking time for yourself—whether it’s going for a walk, reading a book, or just having a quiet moment—can be so restorative.
If you’re comfortable with it, I’d love to hear more about
Hey there, I really appreciate you sharing what you’re going through. It sounds like you’re in a tough spot, and it’s completely understandable to feel overwhelmed when you’re carrying the weight of other people’s trauma. Working in the mental health field can be so rewarding, but it can also take a toll on your own well-being, and it’s really important to acknowledge that.
I remember when I was in a similar position—trying to help others while feeling the emotional strain of their stories. It felt like a constant balancing act, and I often thought I had to have it all together. But the truth is, it’s okay to not have all the answers and to feel that heaviness. It shows how compassionate you are.
Finding ways to prioritize your own mental health is crucial. Have you considered setting some boundaries for yourself? Sometimes even small steps, like scheduling regular breaks or engaging in activities that help you recharge, can make a big difference. I’ve also found that talking to a therapist who understands secondary trauma can be really helpful. They can provide a safe space for you to process your feelings without the fear of burdening someone else.
It’s great that you’ve opened up to your colleagues, even if it hasn’t completely eased the burden. Building that support network, even slightly, can help. You might be surprised at how many of them are feeling something similar but may not have voiced it yet.
I hope you find some strategies that resonate with you. Remember, taking care of yourself
What you’re describing reminds me of a time in my own life when I was overwhelmed by the emotional weight of others’ experiences. It’s incredibly tough to be in a field where you’re constantly absorbing the pain and struggles of those you’re trying to help. At 21, you’re already doing such meaningful work, but it’s important to recognize that even the helpers need help sometimes.
I’ve learned that taking care of yourself isn’t just a nice idea—it’s essential. It’s easier said than done, I know, but finding small ways to check in with yourself can make a big difference. Have you considered setting aside a few moments each day just for you? Simple things like going for a walk, reading a favorite book, or even just sitting quietly with a cup of tea can create a little sanctuary in your busy mind.
It’s great that you’re talking to your colleagues, but if that’s still leaving you feeling isolated, it might help to seek out a supervisor or a mentor—someone with more experience who can offer guidance. Sometimes having a seasoned perspective can really illuminate paths you might not have considered.
Also, don’t underestimate the power of connecting with others outside your field. Friends or family who aren’t in the mental health space can provide a refreshing viewpoint and might help you feel less alone in your experience.
I truly admire your dedication to your work and the compassion you show toward others. It’s a beautiful calling, but remember that you deserve just as much kindness and care
Hey there,
I really appreciate you sharing your experience. It takes a lot of courage to open up about what you’re going through, especially in such a demanding field. I’ve been in a similar place before, feeling that heavy weight of others’ trauma while trying to hold my own ground. It can really be overwhelming, and it’s completely understandable to feel caught in that struggle.
Finding balance between helping others and taking care of yourself is tricky. Have you tried setting aside specific ‘me time’ during your week to recharge? Even small practices, like going for a walk or picking up a hobby, can help create that much-needed boundary between your work and personal life. It sounds simple, but it’s amazing how a little break can shift your perspective.
Also, talking to colleagues can be beneficial, but it might help to seek out a mentor or someone with more experience in the field. They might have insights or coping strategies that have worked for them. It really can feel isolating, but remember, you’re not alone in this. Many of us in the mental health field have felt those same burdens.
Sometimes, just writing down your feelings can be a powerful way to process what’s going on. Have you thought about journaling? It’s a personal space where you can vent without worrying about how it’ll impact someone else. And, if it feels right, connecting with a therapist can provide that extra layer of support while you navigate these feelings.
It’s okay to prioritize your own mental health. It’s
I really appreciate you sharing this because it takes a lot of courage to admit when you’re feeling overwhelmed, especially in such a demanding field. I can only imagine how heavy it must feel to carry the weight of others’ trauma while trying to keep your own mental health in check. It speaks volumes about your compassion and dedication, but it’s absolutely crucial that you prioritize your own well-being, too.
Have you considered setting some clear boundaries around your work? Sometimes, taking those little breaks, even if it’s just stepping outside for a few minutes, can help you reset and regain some perspective. I know it’s not always easy to find that balance, but carving out time for self-care can really make a difference. Whether it’s a hobby you enjoy, exercise, or just some quiet time to decompress, it might help you feel a bit more grounded.
Talking to colleagues is a great first step, but if you’re still feeling isolated, seeking out a mentor or a supervisor might be worth exploring as well. Sometimes, having someone to guide you through it or to simply listen can be incredibly helpful. Also, don’t shy away from professional support for yourself. Therapy can be a safe space to unpack those feelings without the worry of being judged.
I totally get the feeling of needing to help others while also feeling like you’re in a pit. Just remember, you’re not alone in this. Many people in the field face similar struggles, and it’s okay to lean on your support system. It could
Hey there,
Thank you for sharing your experience; it really resonates with me. I can only imagine how heavy it must feel to carry the weight of others’ trauma while navigating your own feelings. It’s such a tough balance to strike, especially in a field that requires so much emotional labor.
I’ve felt overwhelmed too, even in different situations. Sometimes, it’s like we absorb the energy around us, and it can really take a toll on our mental health. I think it’s great that you’ve reached out to your colleagues, even if that’s not providing the relief you hoped for. It’s a step in the right direction, at the very least.
Have you considered setting aside specific time just for yourself? Something that allows you to unwind or process what you’ve been feeling? It could be anything from a hobby you enjoy, like drawing or writing, to just having some quiet time to reflect. And remember, it’s okay to feel overwhelmed; you’re human, after all!
I know it can feel isolating at times, but you’re definitely not alone in this. It might help to connect with others who understand similar struggles, like a support group or even an online community. Just having that shared space could lighten the load a bit.
Take care of yourself, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you ever want to chat more about it. You’re doing important work, and it’s so commendable that you’re aware of the need to care
What you’re describing reminds me of a time when I was really feeling the weight of my own responsibilities, particularly when I juggled a demanding job and personal challenges. It’s completely understandable to feel overwhelmed, especially in a field where you’re constantly absorbing the pain of others. Secondary traumatic stress can sneak up on you, and it’s easy to feel like you’re carrying the world on your shoulders.
I think it’s great that you’re already aware of the importance of self-care. That awareness is the first step in the right direction. Have you considered setting aside some dedicated time for yourself, even if it’s just a short daily ritual? Whether it’s a walk outside, some quiet time with a book, or even a quick meditation session, those little moments can make a big difference.
Also, it can be really helpful to find a supportive community, even outside of your colleagues. Sometimes, chatting with others who understand this kind of stress—like fellow therapists or people who work in related fields—can provide a sense of solidarity and shared experience.
And remember, it’s absolutely okay to seek professional support for yourself too. There’s no shame in wanting to talk things through with someone who can provide you with tools to manage what you’re feeling.
Lastly, I’d love to hear if there are specific coping strategies you’ve tried so far. It’s always enlightening to learn what works for different people. You’re not alone in this, and reaching out like you did takes
I appreciate you sharing this because it takes a lot of courage to open up about what you’re going through. At 21, carrying the weight of others’ trauma can feel like an enormous burden—believe me, I understand how that can weigh heavily on your soul.
In my own experience, I’ve seen how important it is to take a step back and prioritize your mental well-being. I remember when I was younger, feeling the pressure to be strong for others, and it wasn’t until I learned to care for myself that I could truly be there for them. It’s a tough lesson, but it’s essential.
Have you thought about establishing some boundaries for yourself? It might be helpful to set aside dedicated time just for you—time to relax, engage in a hobby, or even just reflect quietly. Everyone deserves those moments of peace, and sometimes they can make a world of difference.
You mentioned talking to colleagues, and that’s great! But if it still feels isolating, perhaps consider reaching out to a mentor or a supervisor. Sometimes, just knowing someone in a more experienced position has faced similar struggles can make you feel less alone.
Also, don’t underestimate the power of self-care practices. Whether it’s journaling, getting outside for a walk, or even practicing mindfulness, these small acts can help you process your emotions and recharge.
You’re in a field that naturally draws on your empathy, and while it’s a gift, it can be draining too.
Hey there,
I really appreciate you sharing your experience. It sounds incredibly challenging, and I can totally relate to the weight of carrying others’ trauma. When I was in a similar position, working in a field where I was constantly exposed to heavy stories, I often felt like I was wading through mud—so hard to find my footing.
It’s tough when you know you need to prioritize your own mental health, especially when you’re in a role that demands so much emotional energy. It sounds like you’re already on the right track by recognizing that self-care is essential if you want to continue supporting others. Have you thought about what specific self-care practices resonate with you? Sometimes even small things—a walk in nature, journaling, or simply setting aside time for a hobby—can help lighten that load a bit.
Also, I wonder if there’s a way to connect with others in your field who might be feeling the same. Sometimes, just knowing that others understand what you’re going through can make a huge difference. You mentioned talking to your colleagues; maybe there’s a way to initiate a more open dialogue, like a support group or a casual meet-up to share experiences and coping strategies.
Remember, it’s okay to lean on others. You’re not alone in this, even if it sometimes feels that way. Taking those first steps toward sharing your feelings can be daunting, but it could lead to a stronger sense of community at work.
If you ever want to chat more or brainstorm some
Hey there,
I really appreciate you sharing your experience. I understand how difficult it must be to navigate the heaviness that comes with working in the mental health field, especially at such a young age. It’s really admirable that you’re pursuing this line of work, but it sounds like it’s also taking quite a toll on you.
Carrying the weight of others’ trauma can be incredibly draining. I’ve seen folks in similar situations struggle with that sense of isolation, even when surrounded by colleagues who might be dealing with their own challenges. Have you considered setting up regular check-ins with a trusted colleague or mentor? Sometimes, it helps to have someone you can turn to regularly, even if it’s just to vent about the day.
Also, I know it might feel counterintuitive, but prioritizing your own mental health is so essential. Have you tried implementing small self-care routines that you can easily fit into your day? Things like taking short breaks to step outside, listening to music, or even practicing mindfulness for a few minutes can make a difference. It’s about finding those little moments that help recharge your batteries.
I’ve found that journaling can also be a great outlet. Writing down how you feel, whether it’s about your work or just day-to-day life, can sometimes help untangle those overwhelming emotions. Plus, it’s a safe space to express yourself without judgment.
Please remember, you’re not alone in this. It takes courage to reach out, and I hope