99. Managing the Hard Stuff: Self-Care When Life Feels Heavy

In this episode, we’re digging into what it really takes to care for ourselves when life—and work—feel like too much and not enough all at once. From waiting on contracts to managing uncertainty, we get real about the emotional toll of the in-between. We explore clinically-backed benefits of self-care and why it matters more than ever during busy seasons. Plus, we share the biggest barriers to self-care (time, guilt, and good old decision paralysis) and offer practical ways to start small, stay consistent, and give yourself grace. Of course, we kick things off with a whiny farmer intro—because yes, the grass is growing in the driveway again.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Discover refreshing self-care strategies for a fulfilling summer.
• Navigate and overcome challenges within the behavioral health system.
• Explore the impact of weather on mental health and well-being.
• Implement practical solutions for improving behavioral health.
• Overcome barriers to self-care and prioritize your well-being.

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:02 - Introduction to Behavioral Health Challenges
00:01:50 - Summer Challenges and Self-Care
00:04:38 - Workload and Seasonal Stress
00:08:48 - Managing Self-Expectations
00:10:20 - Navigating Contractual Challenges
00:11:29 - Understanding the Importance of Self-Care
00:13:11 - Benefits of Self-Care
00:15:13 - Overcoming Barriers to Self-Care
00:18:22 - The Role of Diet in Self-Care
00:21:48 - Sustaining Change and Decision Fatigue
00:22:42 - Importance of Communication and Support in Relationships
00:23:43 - Self-Care and Change of Perspective
00:25:09 - Self-Care Looks Different for Everyone
00:26:20 - Finding Calm in Nature

Links:

• https://www.mentalhealthfirstaid.org/2022/03/how-and-why-to-practice-self-care/
• https://cbtprofessionals.com.au/overcoming-barriers-to-self-care/
• https://www.snhu.edu/about-us/newsroom/health/what-is-self-care
• https://news.vagaro.com/press-release/survey-finds-three-quarters-of-americans-believe-self-care-activities-provide-stress-relief

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Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/8HejLdHahFI