Self-care, Self-compassion, and Compassion for Others

Abstract

This mixed methods study explored palliative care professionals’ self-care practice, and examined levels of and relationships between self-care ability, self-compassion and compassion for others. A national survey of palliative care nurses and doctors was conducted, comprising a questionnaire about self-care practice, validated outcome measures of self-compassion and compassion for others, and a control measure of social desirability. From 372 respondents who completed the survey, 24 nurses and doctors participated in telephone interviews. Quantitative and qualitative data were analysed separately prior to triangulation. Self-care was practised across multiple health-related domains, with physical selfcare strategies used most frequently. Palliative care nurses and doctors recognised the importance of self-care practice, but most participants had not received any self-care education or training. Levels of self-care ability, self-compassion, and compassion for others varied. Self-compassion and self-care ability were positively correlated; at the same time, a negative correlation was observed between compassion for others and self-compassion, raising concerns about compassion literacy. Qualitative findings revealed three themes relating to the meaning and practice of self-care: (1) A proactive and holistic approach to promoting personal health and wellbeing to support professional care of others; (2) Personalised self-care strategies within professional and non-professional contexts; and (3) Barriers and enablers to self-care practice. From a synthesis of combined results, middle range theory statements were generated for further testing and refinement in practice and future research. Consistent with the broaden-and-build theory of positive emotions, self-compassion supports effective self-care practice. Further research is recommended to promote self-compassion and self-care, and evaluate the effect of compassion training programs on physical health and wellbeing.