Self-Care

You’ve heard it before: Self-care is not selfish. Not only that, but it is also necessary for your success as a doctoral student. Although self-care looks different for everyone, it is imperative to ethical social work practice (NASW, 2021). A good and sustainable self-care practice should include care for your physical, emotional, social, professional, and spiritual needs. Regular exercise, a good diet, regular sleep, spending time with loved ones, spending time alone, and engaging in your spiritual practices should be part of your self-care plan.

Here are some self-care ideas:

Engage in a hobby: Whether it’s reading, painting, playing music, or engaging in sports, having hobbies can provide a necessary break from studying and a way to express creativity.

Celebrate Milestones: As you progress through your DSW program, it’s important to acknowledge and celebrate your progress and milestones, no matter how small they may seem. Each completed assignment, each course passed, or successful team project collaboration should be seen as a testament to your hard work and dedication. Taking the time to recognize these achievements can boost your motivation and make the journey more enjoyable. You can celebrate milestones by treating yourself with a trip to the spa, a walk outdoors, a day off to relax, a meal at your favorite restaurant, or a small gift.

Connect with your support network: Reach out to peers, mentors, and friends for support. Building a network can provide emotional support, academic collaboration, and a sense of belonging.

Set boundaries: Set boundaries between academic responsibilities and personal life. Designate specific times for studying and for personal activities, plan breaks into your daily routine, whether it’s a short walk, a coffee break, or a day off, and ensure you have time to recharge.

Practice gratitude: Practicing gratitude is an often underestimated self-care technique. Take a moment each day to acknowledge things you are thankful for, which can help shift focus away from stressors and promote a positive outlook.

“Self-care is not a luxury but a professional responsibility in social work. Intentionally prioritizing wellness & self-care results in resilience and balance.”                 Karen Magruder. Class of 2025.

Remember that self-care is an ongoing process. You should continuously assess your needs and adjust your self-care strategies accordingly. Taking care of yourself is vital not only for your academic success but also for your overall quality of life.