Working with trauma

Vicarious Trauma: Self Care or Self Indulgence?

When delivering training on Vicarious Trauma and Resilience there is usually a moment in the day where the conversation turns to chocolate, wine and box sets as key ‘self-care’ strategies and many in the group giggle with recognition. 

I am personally not willing to give up chocolate (or cake for that matter) as these treats can be accessible ways to relax, switch off and enjoy ourselves, but when do they turn into something else? When do they become indulgent and therefore less helpful, perhaps even becoming a form of self-harm?