W6Q1 The Four Dimension of Care

Describe the four dimensions of care and why they are each very important. Explain which dimension is most important to you and why. Provide an example. As a mental health worker, what advice would you give to a caregiver of someone who was chronically ill and dying?

Read Chapters 6, 7, 8, and 20 in Death & Dying, Life & Living.

Corr, C. A., Corr, D. M., & Doka, K. J. (2019). Death & dying, life & living. Boston, MA: Cengage.

Physical (the body) – to live, move, and breath

Physical self-care involves ensuring an overall healthy lifestyle that includes eating healthy, drinking lots of water, and getting plenty of exercise. Consider de-cluttering your home and office so that you have a feeling of spaciousness and manageability. Take time away from computers, TV, and your smartphone (sedentary lifestyles are a health issue). Enjoy moments to rest and replenish.

Pause & Reflect: What are you currently doing for your physical self-care?

Emotional (heart) – to love, care, and be in relationship with yourself and others

Emotional self-care might include setting clear boundaries on your time and energy. Engage emotional boundaries within helping relationships, surrounding yourself with positive people and affirmative and inspiring messages. Address any issues or problems so that they don’t build up. Give and receive love, kindness, and support. Spend time with people you care about and who care about you.

Pause & Reflect: What are you currently doing for your emotional self-care?

Psychological (the mind) – to learn, think, and grow

Psychological self-care activities might include personal and professional development. Give attention to things that are in your control (your sphere of influence). Take time for personal reflection. Notice your inner experiences, thoughts, and feelings. Cultivate self-awareness through things such as journaling, getting feedback from others, meditation, coaching/counseling, and consultation or supervision – places where you have the opportunity to grow, learn, and reflect.

Pause & Reflect: What are you currently doing for your psychological self-care?

Spiritual (the spirit) – to connect with essence, purpose, and meaning

Spiritual self-care might include prayer or meditation. You may want to visualize, practice gratitude, spend time in nature, and be aware of the non-material aspects of your life. Identify what is meaningful to you in your work and life. Practice mindfulness and being present in the moment.

Pause & Reflect: What are you currently doing for your spiritual self-care?

Monk, L. (2020, December 14). 4 Key Dimensions of Self-Care. Crisis and Trauma Resource Institute. https://ca.ctrinstitute.com/blog/4-key-dimensions-self-care/.