Best of 2009 #9
December 9 Challenge. Something that really made you grow this year. That made you go to your edge and then some. What made it the best challenge of the year for you?
I hesitate to write about work too much, for reasons of confidentiality but…
Easily my current job. Previously I’d worked in disability, but I always had an interest in mental health. Many of my clients (I hate to use the possessive term, but any other way I try to write it sounds clumsy) had mental health issues. Now, working in mental health, I’ve learnt so much more – about specific diagnoses, medication, treatment, legislation, resources, services and so on.
One of the challenges has been the vicarious trauma I’ve experienced. I hate to sound all me me me, but that’s what blogs are about, right? Of course, vicarious trauma is minor compared to the actual trauma experienced, but it is the cumulative effect. Hearing about one client’s current situation, and their past. Processing that (or not) then going on to the next client who has experienced something similar (or worse) and is now struggling too.
I do love my job though. Leaving a client who was teary, with some glimmer of hope makes it all worthwhile.
