You’re a Peer Support professional who needs to manage stress. What tools do you use?

Some of the few ways that don't require extra resources can include: a) Step away from stimulation like social media, Netflix or any other screens for a small break b) Moving our body like going for a short walk (inside your room, if a public place is not accessible in that moment) can also help change your perspective and calm one down in that moment c) Drinking water d) Getting some sunshine, fresh air e) Calling a friend/family member d) Personally, journalling also helps me calm down

Understanding the sources of stress is the first step in effectively managing it. As a Peer Support professional, my stressors may include the emotional weight of supporting others, managing conflicts or crises, and dealing with high-pressure situations. By identifying these stressors, I can proactively address them and develop coping strategies.

For me it all starts with understanding your limitations. Meaning how much can you hold, can you handle, can you absorb before you start to feel fatigued. Knowing your limits and recognizing your triggers will help you manage the additional wear and tear that you’ll experience as a peer offering support. And then I talk. I talk about everything. I have people in my life that I can be open and honest with about the things that haunt me, the things that weigh me down. My rule of thumb is that if you feel like you may need to talk to someone, you may need to talk to someone. So do. Talk to a priest or a pastor or your neighbor or a counselor or a close friend. Talk to a coworker or confide in your spouse. Talk to someone.

Regular physical activity can improve mental fitness. Exercise and physical healthcare impact mental health might also allow you to develop a comprehensive self-care routine. Exercise and other form of movement can reduce depression and anxiety. Getting your body moving and engaging in exercise can also come with a series of other health benefits. Exercise is not mutually exclusive to an intense and rigorous movement. Light stretching, jogging in a park, or running to ten minutes on a treadmill a few times per week. Reducing your stress levels may improve the quality of your life and help focus on vital task. In addition, regular exercise can improve your interpersonal relationships, manner of processing information.

As is Peer Support Professional is is very important for me to identify my stressors and know how to handle them. These can include been burdened by the weight of others, dealing with lots of conflicts at the same time and trying to make sure all these are sorted. Identifying these stressors help me to know when to disconnect and consider my well-being. It also helps me to know when to seek support as well from other Peer Support professionals by sharing valuable insights and experiences.

I enjoy doing hot yoga to have a healthy reset. I also find a lot of peace by simply sitting outside in the sun, doing some deep breathing, and thinking of what I am grateful for.

One thing I found helpful was to go to the ocean at the end of the day and allow the wind to blow away any stress of the day

Remembering to be proactive & strategic rather than reactive, whenever possible. See the big picture and keep your eye on the prize rather than letting things that frustrate, take their toll. I remember what my friend and colleague Jasmyn Strang used to tell me frequently which was that “you can’t save the world Fay even though you want to & try to. You must remember that the cemeteries are full of ‘indispensable people’ & yet the world has gone on without them because there are other people to step up, take their place, & who will bring their wisdom & incites to the situation at hand also”. This takes some of the pressure off me. I remember this whether I’m supporting people one on one or I’m on a federal or state working party/committee.

For my self care I take a bubble bath every night and meditate. When I first started meditating it was not very easy but I practiced and after practicing for awhile it comes second nature and I don’t know how I survived without it.

I use techniques such as mindfulness meditation and deep breathing exercises to relax. I make sure to set aside time for hobbies and interests. I find that engaging in social activities provides relief and connection, and regular physical activity boosts my mood and energy levels. Eating a healthy diet and getting quality sleep is also rejuvenating.

Connecting with my peers provides valuable support and validation, especially when navigating challenging situations. Whether through informal conversations, peer support groups, or professional networks, sharing experiences and seeking advice from colleagues who understand the unique demands of our work can be incredibly beneficial. These connections remind me that I'm not alone and strengthen my resilience in times of stress.

As a trained Peer Supporter for my organisation there have been rather challenging situations, however at the same time has been rewarding when the outcomes have benefited both parties. When roles have been reversed and i have reached out to a trusted colleague as a sounding board, the experience has been extremely positive.

The importance of connecting with my peers cannot be overemphasised. It helps me to share my experience, get valuable insights and understand challenges they also faced and how they've been able to navigate that. It also gives me the opening to seek advice from them to be able to make informed decision.

I am working on a toolkit that allows team members to set their boundaries with team members in real-time. By simply agreeing to a 3-step intervention one can calmly caution someone, calling out their behavior that we might find problematic. And if team members cannot resolve their minor spat they can co-opt the team, using a transparent platform to offer comments and support on an adequate solution, rather than the usual mobbing and gossiping behind each other's backs, of most organizations.

It can be hugely helpful for a peer supporter to be part of a support group themselves where they can share any difficulties or stressors with their own peers. Also having a clear understanding of the boundaries and expectations of their role, and communication pathways for guidance and referral to specialist services will take away much of the anxiety and stress caused by uncertainty.

As a Peer Support professional, it's essential to establish boundaries to protect my well-being and prevent burnout. Setting clear boundaries around my time, availability, and emotional energy helps me maintain a healthy balance between supporting others and taking care of myself. Learning to say no when necessary and prioritizing self-care are important aspects of setting boundaries and preserving my mental health.

Setting boundaries as a pier support professional is crucial. It clarifies the role, maintains professional focus, and manages expectations. An ethical work environment upholds professionalism and trust. Taking scheduled time off is essential for self-care, allowing professionals to recharge and maintain the quality of their support. These practices ensure the relationship remains beneficial and sustainable, safeguarding the well-being of both the professional and those they support.

I have added to the hamburger sandwich method for establishing boundaries 1) grab the other persons’ attention by starting with their name 2) I know that you are a (use a positive word that is contradictory to current behavior) 3) state current situation 4) what I’d like to see/what I’d like to happen is… because the way this stands right now, I feel ________ 5) validate other persons perspective or guess at the other person’s intention and clarify with other person 6) what I need from you going forward is…. If this doesn’t happen, then… 7) I really appreciate your understanding and cooperation. Let me know how I can help you help me

Engaging in enjoyable activities outside of work is essential for relieving stress and fostering a sense of fulfillment. Whether it's spending time with loved ones, pursuing hobbies and interests, or simply enjoying nature, making time for activities that bring me joy and relaxation helps recharge my batteries and counteract the effects of stress. By prioritizing self-care and investing in activities that nourish my spirit, I can maintain a sense of well-being even during challenging times.

Going to the gym and exercising in general helps leave all that you carry in, at the door and allows time to focus on yourself with nothing but positive results.

Recognizing when stress becomes overwhelming and seeking professional help is a crucial part of self-care. As a Peer Support professional, I understand the importance of reaching out for support when needed and accessing resources such as counseling or therapy. Seeking professional help allows me to explore coping strategies, gain perspective on challenging situations, and develop resilience in the face of adversity.

Bringing focus onto what supports your wellbeing and being willing to explore and try new things that have helped peers. Tried and tested for me are: - time out to lean into the feeling to release and then explore what is really the 'stressor' so the real work can be done to face and deal with the problem whether that's internal healing/belief shifts or having the difficult conversation and/or making changes. Finding wise and empowering support for this from peers and professionals can be helpful. - moving my body while immersing in nature - walking or wild swimming - dancing to favourite music to up the vibration - basic habits of organic healthy food, hydration and good long sleep - meditation - having fun and being social - gratitude

Daily healthy habits are crucial for managing stress. For me, this means adequate sleep, hydration, healthy eating without sugar or caffeine, and regular movement. I combat stress by walking or using my under-desk bike, practicing Pilates, and finding relief in Tai Chi during tough times. It's about finding what works for you, staying attuned to your body's response to stress, and consistently applying those strategies. Consistency is key because consistency compounds!

The first step to managing stress is healthy boundaries. Learning to say no is an important skill to keep one's yes more powerful. If everything is a yes there isn't enough of any one person to go around and everything suffers.

Sharing stressors with peers can be therapeutic because peers may know the complexities and quirks of your work. However, repeatedly dedicating time to talk about work can be itself re-traumatizing. Talk about it once then find a new activity. Redirect any residual energy to a non work related task.