Unhealthy coping habits don’t begin as failures; they begin as survival. Over time, the late-night scrolling, overworking, or numbing that once helped you get through the day can leave you feeling stuck and disconnected. In this article, a therapist walks you through why these patterns cling so tightly—and how to start breaking the cycle with small, realistic changes.

Therapists are trained to track burnout in their clients, but not always in themselves. This piece reframes self-care as a core clinical skill, not an afterthought—exploring burnout, compassion fatigue, macro habits, micro moments, and boundaries that keep your empathy clear and your work sustainable over the long term.

When your practice grows slowly, it can feel like a verdict on your talent, your calling, or your future as a therapist. This piece reframes slow growth as feedback, not failure, and walks you through practical ways to train patience, protect your energy, and stay committed to the work you believe in.