Know Your Boundaries

HEART is here to help you care for yourself as well as others. Sometimes, though, self-care practices aren’t enough. When you feel overwhelmed or stuck, reaching out for support is the healthiest step you can take.

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Interactive Reflection

Take a moment to pause and consider:

• Who could you talk to if you needed support?
• What kind of help would feel most useful for you right now (listening, advice, time off, professional counseling, etc.)?

(Write your thoughts in a personal notebook or on your device—this is just for you.)

Practical Tips

• Notice your own warning signs, such as ongoing fatigue, mood changes, or feeling disconnected.
• Don’t wait until things feel unmanageable—reaching out early is the best way to take care of yourself.
• Remember, even small conversations with a trusted person can make a big difference.

Support Resources

Need someone to talk to?

• Ask your manager or HR for information on workplace support services.
• You can also look for peer support groups or online mental health resources.
• Use our emergency  list of support contacts and helplines (Austria and Germany).

Austria – Support Contacts & Helplines

Germany – Support Contacts & Helplines

• When stress, emotional exhaustion, or worry becomes persistent and hard to manage.
• Whether you’re overwhelmed, feeling alone, or just need someone to talk to—these lines are safe, non-judgmental, and available to all.
• Services are free, operate 24/7 (most lines), and are confidential.

Key Points

• Recognize When to Reach Out:
  If stress, exhaustion, or difficult emotions persist—even after using self-care techniques—it may be time to seek help.
• Who Can Help?
  Consider talking to a supervisor, a trusted colleague, a counselor, or a mental health professional.
• Remember:
  Seeking support is a sign of strength. Everyone needs help sometimes, especially in challenging roles like care work.

You’re not alone.

Prioritizing your own well-being helps you stay strong for others, too.

Reaching out is a positive, responsible act of self-care.