The economic twists and turns of the past year have presented client and counselor challenges that have not been seen in decades. Deep concern about non-health-related issues for adults, such as living conditions and dwindling personal financial assets, has plagued the population as a whole, and never more so than for adults over the age of 55. As boomers face the economic surprises of this past year, many of whom will never recover that sense of stability and confidence that comes with working hard and saving wisely for a lifetime, depression and sadness have seemed to increase. Our job as counselors is difficult; clients approaching older adulthood, who have suddenly realized that their quality of life has been threatened, pose a serious challenge to the profession.
We have to continue to offer the best counseling process possible, at the same time that we, as professionals, practice self-care and positive life attitude. We, too, have been affected, and all of the insecurity and frustration others feel is sometimes deposited squarely on our shoulders. As broad as those shoulders may appear to be, stress reduction and self-caring are vital to our own process so that we may be the best counselors, counselor educators, and professionals we can be. Find what helps, embrace a stress-free zone now and then (whatever that is for you), and then allow the time and attention to use that help. If you meditate, do that regularly. If you use self-talk, then talk away. Perhaps physical exercise is your safe space, and if so, allow that time. Whatever the activity-whether physical, mental, or emotional-include it in your daily routine as much as possible.
I sincerely hope that you enjoy this issue and that you will continue to send me your comments about ADULTSPAN Journal and also consider it as a vehicle for your own scholarly work.