How assisting distressed students might affect you

It can be distressing to support someone in distress. At one level, emotions are contagious and we readily feel what someone else is feeling during intense moments. A range of other emotions may arise too – some which may catch you off guard. You might feel:

• Helpless in being unable to help improve the student’s situation
• Worried about the student’s ongoing wellbeing and safety
• Guilty that your circumstances are more fortunate
• Frustrated at the time being taken away from your other duties
• Incompetent that you weren’t able to handle the situation more effectively
• Triggered if you are having difficulties yourself which have been brought to the surface
• Anxious about this situation arising again, and avoiding the student involved.

These are all normal human responses. Being aware of them and recognising their impact is critical for self-care. Without support and self-care strategies in place, you may become emotionally fatigued from caring and supporting students over time.