You can't pour from an empty cup

There is good reason to be hopeful in suicide prevention. Recovery happens, people get better, and there are more care options and supports available all the time. 

But it can also be hard to regularly hold space for people who are hurting.  

The idea that "You can't pour from an empty cup" highlights the vital necessity for self-care.  

Neglecting to replenish ourselves can lead to burnout and can negatively impact the quality of care we provide. 

When we are overly stressed or reaching a point of burnout, our executive functions may be impaired, including the ability to concentrate, make plans, or get organised. It may also lower our ability to feel empathy for those around us. 

Self-care is not a luxury but a necessity. By prioritising your well-being, you'll be better equipped to serve others effectively. 

Here are some small ways that we can look after ourselves even during our busiest days (you might notice that some of them sound very similar to parts of the SafeSide Framework you use during your work): 

• Slow down and breathe. Often, we can go through a whole busy day without stopping to take a few meaningful breaths. Pausing for even a few seconds to close your eyes and take some deep, cleansing breaths can help you reset and feel more grounded. 
• Build gratitude into your daily routine. There is good evidence that adding gratitude to your regular routine can have a positive impact on your mental health and can help reduce stress. You can find an approach to gratitude that fits your personal style. Perhaps start a gratitude journal or say five things you are grateful for before your feet hit the ground in the morning.
• Give yourself the grace you give others. We can be our own harshest critics. Sometimes we add to our stress by creating more within ourselves. In times of stress, our negative self-talk or criticisms can increase. If you feel that happening, you can try stepping back and asking yourself if you’d ever talk to a loved one or colleague the way you are talking to yourself. Be gentle with yourself and remember you are doing the best you can with what you have in that moment. 

The little things we say and do in life can have the most impact. This is true not only for how we treat the people we serve but also for ourselves.