Therapists help people across the globe daily when it comes to maintaining their mental health. But, when you put the needs of others above your own, you could end up feeling burnt out, overwhelmed, and even isolated. Just as doctors need other doctors when they’re struggling with medical issues, therapists can also take advantage of therapy options when they’re struggling with mental health issues. One of the big issues therapists often deal with is isolation. Research has shown that feelings of isolation can greatly affect someone’s mental health. It can lead to depression, anxiety, physical issues, and a greater mortality rate.
If you’re a mental health professional, it’s important to understand the importance of taking care of your mental well-being, avoiding isolation, and reaching out for help when needed.
Why Is Therapy Isolating?
As a therapist, your job can be both very rewarding and very taxing all at once. Helping people manage their mental health and overcome issues like anxiety and depression is fulfilling. However, as the old saying goes, you can’t pour from an empty cup.
Hearing people talk about their mental health struggles each day can be difficult for your own well-being. Plus, because so many therapists run private practices, you might feel like you don’t have anyone to open up to at work. Once a patient leaves, you’re alone with your thoughts.
Having a healthy social life and support system outside of work is important. Still, some therapists might fall into the trap of stigma, believing that they should somehow “know better” or shouldn’t struggle with issues like isolation. Unfortunately, that idea only makes things worse.
So, what can you do to fight back against isolation?
Find a Support Network
Talking to family members and friends about how you’re feeling is a good place to start. These are the people in your life who are most likely to help with feelings of isolation. They’ll help you feel loved and supported no matter what.
It can also be helpful to lean on a professional support network.
You’re not the only mental health professional dealing with feelings of isolation. Connecting with other professionals (either online or in person) can help you process your feelings, combat loneliness, and offer you a sense of community without the risk of being judged.
Take Your Work Somewhere Else
Whether you work in private practice or not, sometimes a change of scenery can make it easier to feel less isolated. Get out of the office whenever you’re in-between appointments or have some paperwork or research to do.
Go somewhere public, like a local park or your favorite cafe. You can still get your work done with a sense of privacy while being around others. Sometimes, just the feeling of having other people around can make a big difference, even if you’re not directly interacting with them.
Find a Healthy Work-Life Balance
At the end of the day, therapists are only human. You might not be able to talk about your patients, but it doesn’t mean they immediately leave your mind each night when you go home.
It can be hard to separate your work life from your personal life since you deal with such heavy emotions daily. Do your best to leave work at the door when you come home. That can be easier if you have something to look forward to on your own time. Take up a hobby, or schedule a date night with your partner once a week. These can serve as small distractions, but they’ll make a big difference in your ability to “let go” of what happened at the office.
Seek Out Help
It’s important to remember that there isn’t any shame in feeling lonely and isolated as a therapist. If you’re struggling and can’t seem to break free from those feelings, don’t hesitate to seek help. Talking to another therapist can help you realize you’re not alone and can fight back against isolation in healthy, effective ways. Reach out to me soon so we can begin our work together.
