LawCare often notes how callers to the helpline often seem to put everyone and everything ahead of themselves. A typical caller might be working excessive hours, doing work beyond their skill set, struggling with a chronic health condition or continuing to work even when advised by their GP to have some time out. Self-care is about prioritising your own needs and listening to what your body and mind are telling you. 

Seven pillars of self care

The International Self-Care Foundation outlines seven pillars of self-care to help you avoid increased anxiety and stress:

1. Health literacy - The World Health Organization (WHO) defines health literacy as “the cognitive and social skills which determine the motivation and ability of individuals to gain access to, understand and use information in ways to promote and maintain good health”. If you recognise you need help, then you should seek it and follow any relevant advice.
2. Self-awareness - Acknowledge your physical, emotional, social, spiritual, and professional needs. Whether that’s a morning run, a drink with a friend, attending church or seven hours sleep, build it into your schedule in the same way you block out time for a meeting. 
3. Physical activity - Exercise is recognised as an important activity to boost positive brain chemistry, improve overall physical and emotional health, and reduce the risk of developing diseases. Even a 10-minute break can help. Micro stretching breaks were found to enhance physical function and mental focus in a 2017 medical study.
4. Healthy eating - Eating a balanced diet improves wellbeing. Supplements can also help. It is important to eat regularly so plan ahead to buy a healthy lunch and snacks, or set a reminder to go out for lunch.
5. Risk mitigation - This pillar refers to the avoidance or reduction of behaviours that directly increase the risk of disease such as smoking, excessive alcohol intake or drug taking.
6. Good hygiene - The simple acts of regular grooming and looking after your appearance can increase happiness and self-esteem. Sometimes this can falter when we are stressed but it can make a difference to how you feel throughout the day.
7. Rational use of products and services - The final pillar is about safely and effectively managing your health with medication, products or services. If relevant, talk to your doctor to understand the implications of not taking prescribed medication.

Need support?

Investing time in self-care will help you professionally, as well as personally. If you want to talk about any of the issues raised in this article, call the LawCare confidential helpline for support on 1800 991 801 or visit the LawCare website.

Law Society eZine

This article originally appeared in the April 2018 Law Society eZine. For more information, and to subscribe, see eNewsletters.