At VanHack, we prioritize the well-being and mental health of our employees. As part of our commitment to fostering a supportive work environment, we recently had the privilege of hosting a special guest, Camila Schoenfelder, a renowned Trauma Informed Counsellor. In line with Mental Health Awareness Month, Camila shared her expertise on burnout and enlightened our leaders about strategies to handle and prevent it within our organization.
The Burnout Epidemic
Camila provided us with eye-opening statistics, shedding light on the alarming prevalence of burnout in Canada. According to the official charts, 77% of women and 66% of men have considered leaving their jobs due to burnout. These numbers underscore the urgency of addressing this issue and implementing effective solutions.
Understanding The Causes
Burnout can stem from a multitude of factors, ranging from work-related stress to personal challenges. It is essential for us to identify the root causes of burnout within our organization so that we can collaborate with our employees to find suitable solutions.
By understanding the underlying issues, we can create a supportive environment that promotes well-being.
Here are some key takeaways from Camila’s Talk:
- Recognize the signs: It is crucial for both leaders and employees to be aware of the signs of burnout, such as exhaustion, feelings of helplessness, hopelessness, and decreased productivity. By acknowledging these indicators, we can intervene early and prevent burnout from escalating.
- Foster open communication: Camila emphasized the importance of creating a safe space for open dialogue. Encouraging employees to share their concerns and challenges helps build a supportive community where everyone feels heard and understood. This can also help create an essential support system when fighting burnout.
- Promote work-life balance: Striking a healthy balance between work and personal life is key to preventing burnout. Encouraging employees to take breaks, practice self-care, and engage in activities they enjoy outside of work can significantly contribute to their overall well-being.
- Implement wellness practices: Camila highlighted various wellness practices and programs that can be incorporated into our work culture at little or no cost. Simple initiatives such as mindfulness exercises, team-building activities, and flexible work arrangements can make a significant difference in the lives of our employees.
Moving Forward
The strategies shared by Camila brought some new insights to the VanHack leadership team. We are committed to implementing some practices and further exploring additional measures to combat burnout. By prioritizing the well-being of our employees, we aim to create an environment where they can thrive both personally and professionally.
Having Camila Schoenfelder, Trauma Informed Counsellor, was an invaluable experience for VanHack. As we observe Mental Health Awareness Month, it is crucial for us to address the issue of burnout head-on. Together, we can combat burnout and build a stronger, more resilient organization.
Great Resources
- Validation Video shared by Camila: The video is about a man named Hugh Newman who works in a parking garage and provides validation to customers. He compliments and encourages them, making them feel appreciated and valued. One customer, in particular, is touched by his kind words and actions and shares her story of how she lost the ability to smile but was able to find it again because of someone like Newman. The video highlights the power of validation and the impact it can have on someone’s life.
Contact Camila:
Email: [email protected]
IG @camilacounsellor
Camila, a strong and determined Brazilian who has been living in Canada for the past five years, has embarked on a deep and transformative journey filled with experiences that have changed her life. With the support of her loved ones and her own courage, she fearlessly transformed herself on multiple occasions.
Two years ago, Camila faced depression and anxiety. Determined to overcome these difficulties, she made the brave choice to seek help from a professional counselor. Through this process, she not only discovered her own path to healing but also realized her ability to assist others going through similar struggles. This newfound understanding inspired her to go back to college and pursue the career she had always wanted.
Today, Camila proudly introduces herself as a Trauma-Informed Wellness Counselor, prioritizing the needs of her clients in her practice. As a valued member of the LGBT+ community, she passionately promotes inclusion, acceptance, and self-exploration. In her role, Camila creates a safe and nurturing environment where individuals can develop healthy relationships through effective communication and genuine compassion.
Above all, Camila serves as an unwavering source of inspiration, encouraging her clients to embark on a personal journey to discover and embrace the true meaning of love—for others and, most importantly, for themselves.
With her extensive understanding of the profound impact of trauma on overall well-being, Camila stands as a beacon of hope for those seeking support. Through her dedication and expertise, she guides others towards a brighter future, helping them embrace their unique paths of self-discovery and personal growth. Through Camila’s compassionate guidance, individuals find strength and acquire the necessary tools to navigate life’s challenges, leading to a transformative change that extends far beyond the counseling room.