Article- Library Burnout: Causes, Symptoms, Solutions. This article is from the December 2009 issue.
By Christine Martin Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary, Tenth Edition, defines “burnout” as “exhaustion of physical or emotional strength or motivation, usually as a result of prolonged stress or frustration.” But I didn’t need to tell you that. Chances are, you have developed your own definition of burnout, which tends to be high among those who work in helping professions like library science. Library Journal- Supporting patrons and the staff who serve them. Libraries across the country are finding new ways to support patrons experiencing mental health challenges—as well as the staff who serve them For many, public libraries are safe, nonjudgmental spaces to escape into a book, program, or quiet room.
For regular visitors, library staff can be reassuring, familiar faces. These perceptions are thrown into sharp relief for users experiencing mental health challenges. Patrons navigating library services while grappling with mental health conditions, looking for resources to better understand their lives, or using the library as a refuge while experiencing homelessness or substance abuse often need additional resources, accommodations, and reserves of compassion. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, nearly one in five U.S. adults live with a mental illness—46.6 million as of 2017. Coronavirus Anxiety Workbook- A tool to help reduce anxiety and stress, especially in relation to the COVID-19 pandemic and its aftermath.
The Happiness Lab- Learn what will actually make you feel happy. Insight Timer - A free app with meditation, yoga, and music to help with anxiety, sleep, and stress. MentalHealth.gov- Resources for ways to get help with issues related to mental health. Mental Health and Public Libraries- An on-demand webinar to learn strategies on making an impact in your community.
According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) in 2018, 1 in 5 adults experienced mental illness in some form.
Accurate information and resources are not always available and can be hard to find. San Diego Public Library saw a need in their community to be this resource and decided to act on it. Their goal was to train their staff in Mental Health First Aid and provide other resources and training to members of their community. These efforts have benefited their community and have better equipped their staff with the tools they need to effectively work with individuals who are living with mental health issues. Mental Health At Work- Learn why mental health maintenance is importance in the workplace.