Helping others doesn’t mean sacrificing yourself. Learn how peer supporters can set boundaries without guilt, burnout, or blowing up relationships.
Do you ever feel like you’re always “on call” for your team, even when you’re off?
That might be a sign your peer support boundaries are too fuzzy. And here’s the thing: blurry boundaries don’t help anyone, not you, and not the people you’re trying to support.
In peer support, it’s easy to slip into a mindset where you feel like you can’t say no. Like if someone needs you, you have to drop everything and respond. But that’s not sustainable. You can’t pour from an empty cup, and you shouldn’t feel guilty for taking care of your own mental and emotional health.
In this episode, you’ll learn how to set boundaries in a way that protects your energy and still communicates care. We’ll talk about how to avoid burnout, how to recognize when you’re giving too much, and how to create healthy limits that still allow you to be present and helpful.
BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL LEARN:
- How to recognize when your boundaries are being pushed
- What healthy peer support boundaries look like in real life
- How to say “no” without guilt—and why it’s one of the most caring things you can do
This episode will help you stay effective, avoid resentment, and model the kind of balance that actually helps your team thrive.
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Connect with Bart
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/bartleger
Facebook Page: facebook.com/survivingyourshift
Website: survivingyourshift.com
Want to find out how I can help you build a peer support program in your organization or provide training? Schedule a no-obligation call or Zoom meeting with me here.
Mentioned in this episode:
Houston Area CISM GRIN Training
This 3-day course, hosted by the Atascocita Fire Department, will teach you how to support your peers through effective communication, emotional resilience, and understanding the psychological impact of crises. Register for this training. https://stresscaredoc.com/atascocita-grin Dates: January 6-8, 2026 Times: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM each day Location: Atascocita Fire Admin Building
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