Building Emotional Resilience

HELPFUL TIPS

Building emotional resilience

Tools to recharge your bank again

The loss of a pet is an emotional time for not only the family, but the staff and professionals who provide end of life care for these beloved companions. After the loss of a pet, practice staff are often left to support grieving pet families as well as experiencing their own range of emotions.

HERE ARE 5 RECOMMENDATIONS THAT YOU CAN USE TO RECHARGE YOURSELF WHEN SUPPORTING GRIEVING PET FAMILIES AFTER A LOSS.

DEBRIEF

Encourage the creation of a resilient workplace by acknowledging the feelings of loss and associated grief by all practice staff. After a challenging day or difficult event in the work environment, take some time to individually collect your thoughts and emotions. Come together as a team and keep communication open and honest.

POSITIVE SUPPORT NETWORK

Surround yourself with a supportive and understanding network. After an emotional day, or a challenging loss it is important to have people there to support you and be there for you after the workday is over. Your community may include a handful of your close friends and family, a partner, workmates and roommates.

EATING WELL

A balanced diet ensures you are getting the right nutrients to support a healthy body and mind. Make sure you enjoy fresh fruit, vegetables and wholegrains and ensure your favourite foods are on your grocery list.

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

Whether a morning run, a gym session in the afternoon or even a walk to get a morning coffee it is important to get your body moving. Daily activity, a bit of sunshine and a change of scenery is a great way to take some time out for yourself.

SLEEP AND REST

Getting enough restful sleep is vital in maintaining mental wellbeing. A lack of sleep can affect your mood, memory and concentration as well as weakening your immune system. If you are having trouble sleeping for difficulty staying asleep, contact your doctor and have a chat about ways to improve your sleep schedule. It is normal to feel emotional after a loss as it shows how loved and cared for the beloved companion was before their passing. It is challenging to support others while experiencing your own emotions, so take some time out to check in with yourself and recharge your emotional bank.

The information contained in this article is general in nature and does not take into account your personal situation. You should consider whether the information is appropriate to your needs, and where appropriate, seek professional advice.