these symptoms, the better off you and your co-workers
will be.
All RPs and chaplains need to be able to recognize
the early symptoms of burnout, not only in themselves,
but also in their co-workers, and in people with whom
they come in contact. Why? Because it is important that
feelings be acknowledged and that you support those
around you. If you suspect that you, a co-worker, or a
client may be experiencing burnout, take (or
recommend) the following steps:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
Decide what is causing the problem. Look
toward, not away, from problems and feelings.
Once you identify the cause, it will be easier to
work out a solution.
Learn to accept what cannot be changed.
Everyone has some control over themselves. No
person has control over everything.
Accept the fact that occasionally everyone
makes mistakes and that no person is right all the
time. A mistake does not reduce a person’s
value.
Share your concerns with someone else—
someone you love, trust, or respect.
Get enough exercise.
Avoid self-medication. Alcohol or pills will not
help you to cope.
Avoid self-pity by doing something for someone
else.
Avoid loneliness.
Try a temporary diversion.
Create a plan of action for solving problems by
taking active management steps.
Assess your priorities.
Have a physical checkup to eliminate the
possibility of physical illness.
Get the support of your family and friends.
Learn to love and appreciate yourself for your
unique contributions and abilities.
Remember, you are capable of doing all these things
to control burnout. Remember also to help your
co-workers and clients take similar steps when burnout
threatens.
SCREENING CLIENTS
One of your basic responsibilities will be to screen
the persons who request appointments. To do this, you
will need to obtain some basic background information
concerning each client. The information you will obtain
will vary according to the needs of the individual
chaplain.
At a minimum, you will need to obtain the following
information:
The full name of the visitor
The rank, rate, or dependency status of the visitor
The activity to which the visitor or the visitor’s
sponsor is assigned
A complete work address
The correct telephone numbers
A careful exploration of the purpose of the visit,
such as personal, military, financial, spiritual, or
general assistance
Even when you obtain the minimum information,
always be aware of your responsibilities for
confidentiality and for treating each client with dignity.
MAINTAINING A COMPLETE LOCAL
REFERRAL DIRECTORY
The purpose of an information and referral directory
is to link people in need to the available local sources
that can provide the services they require. A directory
can be an invaluable tool to Navy chaplains in their
efforts to assist Navy and Marine Corps personnel and
their families in meeting and overcoming the problems
that they may encounter during periods of stress, illness,
crisis, and other emergencies.
One of your main responsibilities will be to assist
the chaplain by compiling, maintaining, and providing
up-to-date information for this directory. The contents
of the directory should include applicable Navy, Marine
Corps, and civilian programs, facilities, and
organizations that can provide services for your clients.
The effectiveness of the directory will largely depend
upon your efforts to compile and maintain it. In most
geographic areas, you should be able to find out about
the local agencies and facilities that can provide services
to Navy and Marine Corps members and their families.
When creating a directory, be certain to contact the
Navy and Marine Corps family service centers. These
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