Navigating Stress As A Peace Corps Volunteer: Signs To Watch Out For
Recognizing the Challenges of Mental Health during Service
Being a Peace Corps volunteer is stressful, especially during the first year. But as you integrate more, learn the language, and learn to work in your community, stress levels should be going down, or at least not as frequently. But if it isn't, here are some signs that tell you this isn't something to ignore:
Your hair falls out.
Your digestive system feels out of whack.
You're not getting enough sleep.
Your skin breaks out.
You heal slowly.
You have trouble concentrating.
You're really low on energy.
You have difficulty breathing.
Your vision changes.
You gain weight (or lose weight)
But PCVs are both smart and adaptable. So, here are some reminders (you already know most of these) to help get a better handle on stress:
Have a support network of PCV friends and family back home who can provide positive support and encouragement. And don't forget to lean on your counterparts and host family too.
Your top priority is to get enough sleep.
You are probably doing more physical work than you did back in the US, but be sure to get your heart rate higher sometimes. Go for uphill hikes, start a C35K running program, and start a HIIT workout group at your work or community.
Practice deep breathing, meditation, and relaxation exercises daily.
Don't over-commit! Plan "health time" for yourself. If you are sick or too stressed, that means you can't help your community. Taking care of yourself is a top priority.
If these aren't helping, reach out to your PSN volunteers or your PCMO. This is critical if you feel any of these:
Stress is making even everyday activities difficult.
You don't enjoy things you usually enjoy.
Stress is causing a strain on your relationships with your host family, counterparts, or community members.
You have physical symptoms that are not normal for you, like chest pain or difficulty breathing.
You're having thoughts of self-harm or suicide.
And last, just because you're stressed and seek professional help doesn't mean you have to ET (early termination). Peace Corps staff want you to succeed, and if that means taking care of your mental health for a bit, let them help you. Then when you are in a better state of mind, you can decide if Peace Corps service is still something you want to continue.
The lessons you learn about stress and how to handle it are going to be great tools for any volunteer once they return home. Stress will always be there. But if you can handle the Peace Corps, you can handle what life will throw at you in the future.
Find more “Self Care” advice at WanderingTheWorld.com - All Things Peace Corps