For this podcast I am joined by James Saville, who is the Director of HR.
James talks about his own experience of stress and burn out, and from a perspective of someone who is used to achieving and operating at a senior level, and who also needs to understand work stress, not only because he manages other staff, but because as HR Director he oversees the University’s response to stress at work. James speaks with remarkable openness, warmth and personal insight as we discuss journeys into and out of burn-out, recognising signs and triggers, managing your inner chimp or critic, and noticing and receiving the support of those around you. We also talk about some of the ‘blessings’ of burn-out: learning to look after yourself, re-evaluating your priorities and wanting to do good in the world, and growing in self-knowledge and compassion.
If any of the issues in this broadcast have affected you and you’d like support, here are some helplines.
If you feel that you or someone you are with is in danger right now, please call 999
A 24/ hour emergency mental health service, Mental health assessment service us on 0131 537 6000.
Breathing Space 0800 83 85 87 ·
The Samaritans 08457 90 90 90 ·
Edinburgh Crisis Centre 0808 801 0414
For University support
Student Counselling Service, https://www.ed.ac.uk/student-counselling
Staff Counselling Service, https://www.ed.ac.uk/counselling-services/staff
The Listening Service (for students and staff), chaplaincy@ed.ac.uk, 0131 650 2595
