Needing Help as the Helper

There are many ways in which we connect with others to provide care, support, and necessary tools to those in need, from the helping and healthcare professions, to care work done at home and in our communities. The job of a helper is inherently giving in nature – giving time, energy, and support to someone else who needs it. In these relationships, the helper is often seen as the strong person, and the one to lean on when things get hard. But what happens when the helper needs help too?

Feeling like the only one Struggling

Nearly 50% of healthcare workers experience some sort of burnout, stress, or anxiety from short staffing, high job demands, or compassion fatigue, with that number jumping to nearly 75% following the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic (AJPH 2024). These experiences may feel isolating, but if you see yourself in this population of individuals who are tired, burnout, and stressed, you are not alone, and you are in resilient company.

When to Ask for Help

Do you notice yourself crashing at the end of the day? Feeling isolated? Overwhelmed by the stress at work and taking those worries home with you? Do you find yourself being easily frustrated when you would usually be more patient with loved ones or friends? Have you noticed your ability to cope in stressful situations has changed?

At Third Wave, we can provide a space to share these worries, and let us help you shoulder the weight you carry everyday. Together, we can find a way to manage your stress, notice and identify burnout before it butts its ugly head, and Ride the Wave together. You do not have to take these steps alone- we are here when you are ready.