QMHW – Taryn’s Story

This Queensland Mental Health Week, we are sharing stories from our staff about how they tend to their own well-being and what assistance QPASTT can offer for people who might need some support.

Taryn McBurney is a the Team Leader of our Children’s and Youth Counselling Team.

I think it’s important to be aware that modern life is stressful, but we can put energy into creating balance through quality sleep, food, and exercise. We are always so busy rushing from one thing to the next, so getting out in nature is another great way to stop and take a moment. Prioritising my spirituality allows me to check in, self-regulate and stay grounded.

 

Another way I stay balanced is by setting good personal boundaries, like leaving work at work, so it does not bleed into other areas of my life. During COVID, I had a specific ritual to balance my work and home life. Even though I was working from home, I would put my work clothes on, walk out the door, around the block and back into my house to start work for the day. Then, when I finished, I would walk around the block again, come back into the house and change my clothes, and it felt like I was coming home for the day.

 

In times of hardship, many people isolate themselves from their loved ones, which can amplify feelings of anxiety and depression. For children, having the opportunity to spend time with and play with their parents is essential.  Play is such an important way for children to process the world around them.”