Navigating the selection of support workers has become increasingly challenging for me, primarily due to the personal mental health disclosures during interviews. Although I empathize, having faced similar challenges myself, my primary need is stability.
I’ve encountered numerous candidates, having to decline most after learning about their struggles during our initial meetings. This has left me somewhat apprehensive about the process.
Is it possible that this field attracts individuals because other job opportunities are less available to them? Or is there something inherent in support work that draws those who have their own mental health challenges?
The frequent sharing of personal issues by support workers has been overwhelming. I seek a professional relationship where the focus remains on the tasks at hand, without getting into personal adversities. It’s crucial for me to maintain a serene environment, free from additional emotional strain.
Could anyone share their insights or experiences? How do you maintain professional boundaries without feeling guilty, especially if you can relate to their experiences?
The issue might stem more from inadequate training than the individual’s mental health status. Often, there’s a lack of emphasis on professional boundaries in the training of support workers.
Indeed, the sector does seem to attract a wide array of personalities, including those who are compassionate but may be working through their own issues. Perhaps setting explicit boundaries right at the start could help maintain professionalism.
There’s a real problem with the low barriers to entry in this field. It’s accessible, which is great, but it also means that some may not fully understand the professional standards required.
In aged care, you’re required to have a Cert 3 in aged care/individual support. You’re also required to do placement for 2-4 weeks in an aged care facility where you learn all about showering, dressing, feeding… and professional boundaries.
I know its a different industry, but its very closely related in terms of the responsibilities. You’re essentially providing assistance with daily living and sometimes social support.
I know it’s not the be all end all (some who are qualified still lack competence/care factor), but you’d be suprised about how effective effort filters can be. Increasing effort required to enter an industry would increase the chances of a higher quality support worker.
With regards to this question. Its a tough one if you relate to them. I’d have to agree with Emily though. Set boundaries and gently remind people of those boundaries if they cross them down the track. Remind them that you don’t want to come across as nasty, but that you need to try to maintain a mentally serene environment for yourself so that your mental health doesn’t become affected.
From my dual perspective as a client and a peer worker, having personal experience with mental health can be invaluable. However, it must be wielded with professionalism. Finding someone who can empathetically connect yet maintain those necessary professional boundaries is key.
Many support workers are not qualified to know and understand professional boundaries. As a SW (support worker) you are employed to assist the participants. You can share basic information about yourself but not the day to day stuff. I have a rule. When you arrive at the participants house you put your handbrake on not only in the car but in your mind too. Your personal life and issues are paused and you are at work. Until you finish your shift you are there to support your participants in any way you can within the scope of your role. Once you finish, you can get back into your car take off the handbrake and start to process then your personal issues. This is what I teach all my students.
I hope this helps SWs and can give many other tips including great ways to understand these. Eg the traffic lights scenarios.
I like the idea of putting the ‘handbrake’ on mentally when starting a shift. It’s a good way to keep things clear. Difficult to be a participant and express this sometimes though. I think more support workers could benefit from more training and that kind of mindset to be honest. The traffic lights thing sounds like a helpful approach too