Description

There are many kinds of helpers in our world the caregivers among us They are the social workers who serve the vulnerable the nurses and doctors who treat the ill the teachers who instruct the young the first responders who rescue the imperiled the faith leaders who comfort the congregation the volunteers who support the community And whether or not it is our professional calling each of us is likely to serve as a caregiver at some point in our lives These and many other efforts to serve are among the most noble pursuits we can imagine but they come with a danger worth recognizing

In their devotion to the wellbeing of others caregivers routinely put their own wellbeing last and can unintentionally burn themselves out physically emotionally and spiritually Their selfneglect has the potential to stir up feelings of anger and resentment leading to a sense of guilt and shame

In The Soul of the Helper Dr Holly Oxhandler shows caregivers and fellow helpers a more selfcompassionate way to cope with their overwhelming responsibilities and to attend to their own needs particularly when it comes to their mental health and spiritual journey She invites them to pause and realize that if they let their personal resources run dry they cannot possibly care for others as fully as they wish