Trauma on the job

[ImSad]

I thought I was managing well but recently I’ve endured quite a few traumatic things on the job. I work in the social services field in a residential setting. I’ve been slammed into walls, punched in the face, spent countless nights in hospitals due to a kid’s suicidal ideation or attempt. Most recently I had a kid put his hands around my neck and try to choke me twice. I tend to numb it all out as just part of the job, but it’s catching up with me. And I’m isolating a lot outside of work — not making any attempts to see friends or do anything else useful.

Anyone have tips on how to handle a traumatizing job? I’m sort of looking for other work, but I’ve gotta figure out how to manage in the meantime.

 

[joeylittle]

Have you ever looked into a mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) program?

If not that - I think some form of daily practice that helps you let go of the stressors of the day will be very important. For some that's physical activity, others mindfulness or meditation, others both...Something that you can commit to doing on a daily basis that will be the time when you clear out the stressors that have built up over the day.