Beyond bubble baths and wine: Broadening perspectives on self-care in female social workers in Saskatchewan

Abstract

A basic interpretive qualitative research design was used to explore the definition and application of self-care with five female social workers in Saskatchewan. These social workers volunteered to provide information about their experience as a social worker and the potential impact of self-care in their life. Data was analyzed using thematic analysis and included analysis with a feminist lens. There were seven main themes: shifting perspectives about the meaning of self-care, communication, relationships, proactivity, workplaces, holistic self-care, and therapy/counselling. Within these themes were sub-themes used to clarify the self-care practices. Findings are discussed in relation to current research on self-care in social work with recommendations for further research, and implications for practice are included.