Crisis Lifeline: Call/Text 988

National Helpline 1-800-662-4357

Veterans Crisis Line (dial 988 then press 1)

National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-SAFE)

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Fosterdaddirective@gmail.com

In this episode of The Foster Dad Directive, I focus on the importance of healthy self-care, especially for foster parents and caregivers who live under constant stress. Using the Scottsdale Recovery framework, I walk through eight core types of self-care: physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, intellectual, environmental, social, and financial. I share how I’ve personally struggled with burnout from years of poor sleep, fast food, long shifts, and nonstop responsibilities, and how I’ve recently begun rebuilding my health through exercise, home-cooked meals, better sleep habits, and cutting back on things that hurt my energy and recovery. I talk honestly about weight gain, exhaustion, caffeine and alcohol use, and how even small changes—like short daily workouts and better food choices—have already started improving my energy and stress levels.

I also open up about the emotional and mental side of self-care, including journaling, therapy, mindfulness, and learning to slow down before reacting—especially as a foster parent dealing with teens and trauma. I explain how spiritual purpose, intellectual growth through reading and learning, environmental improvements at home and in my yard, stronger social connections with family, and better financial planning have all played a role in helping me stabilize my life. Above all, I emphasize that self-care isn’t selfish—it’s necessary for survival, for our families, and for the kids we care for. I remind listeners that you don’t need money or perfection to take care of yourself, only intention, consistency, and the willingness to slow down. I close by encouraging foster parents to protect their own well-being so they can continue showing up for others with a clear mind and a full heart.

00:00 — Episode Introduction & Purpose of Self-Care

Healthy self-care vs. unhealthy coping.

01:38 — The 8 Types of Self-Care Overview

Physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, intellectual, environmental, social, financial.

02:07 — Physical Self-Care

Exercise, sleep, diet, weight loss, reducing fast food and caffeine.

05:03 — Mental Self-Care

Mindfulness, meditation, stress management, therapy challenges.

06:44 — Emotional Self-Care

Journaling, emotional awareness, Reset Method insights.

07:49 — Spiritual Self-Care

Values, purpose, volunteering, AA perspective on higher power.

09:09 — Intellectual Self-Care

Reading, learning, podcasts, creativity, staying mentally sharp.

10:44 — Environmental Self-Care

Gardening, decluttering, home organization, improving living space.

12:28 — Social Self-Care

Family relationships, connection, isolation, quality time.

14:29 — Financial Self-Care & Final Reflections

Budgeting, debt, emergency savings, long-term stability.