Working in the substance abuse treatment space can be rewarding, but it can also be incredibly stressful. Professionals in this field are tasked with helping people who are struggling with addiction to get sober, and this can be emotionally taxing. It is essential for those in the field to take care of themselves to avoid burnout and ensure they can continue to provide effective treatment. In this article, I explore some tips for industry professionals on how to handle the stress of working with people trying to get sober.
Take Care of Your Own Mental Health
The first step in handling stress when working with people trying to get sober is taking care of your own mental health. It is essential to recognize when you need a break and take the time to recharge. This might mean taking a few minutes to meditate between client sessions, going for a walk during your lunch break, or seeking professional counseling if necessary.
Practice Self-Compassion
It can be easy to get caught up in the stress of having a job in the substance abuse recovery field and to be hard on yourself when things don’t go as planned. Practicing self-compassion means treating yourself with the same kindness and understanding you would offer a friend or client. This can help reduce stress and prevent burnout.
Set Boundaries
A job in the substance abuse treatment profession can be demanding, and it is important to set boundaries to prevent burnout. This might mean limiting the number of clients you see in a day, taking time off when needed, or delegating tasks to other members of your team.
Practice Mindfulness
Mindfulness is the practice of being present in the moment and can help reduce anxiety and stress. There are many ways to practice mindfulness, including meditation, deep breathing exercises, and yoga. Find what works for you and incorporate it into your daily routine.
Seek Support from Colleagues
It can be isolating to work in substance abuse treatment, but it does not have to be. Reach out to colleagues for support, whether it’s to share a difficult case or to vent about a challenging day. Having a support system can help reduce stress and prevent burnout.
Celebrate Small Wins
Working with people trying to get sober can be challenging, but it can also be incredibly rewarding. Celebrate small wins with your clients and take time to acknowledge the progress they have made. Focusing on the positive can help reduce stress and provide motivation to continue working towards recovery.
Conclusion
It can be stressful to work in a substance abuse treatment program, but by taking care of yourself, practicing self-compassion, setting boundaries, practicing mindfulness, seeking support from colleagues, and celebrating small wins, you can reduce stress and prevent burnout. Remember that taking care of yourself is essential to providing effective treatment to those struggling with addiction.
Please feel free to share with your colleagues and drop me a note if you have some other practices that I might have missed.
Marit Lee, M.A.
Director of Admissions
