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After enduring a year marked by personal trials, including my husband's melanoma diagnosis and my own battle with breast cancer, I've gained a deeper understanding of the often-unseen challenges faced by those of us in the helping professions. I am Dr. Julie Merriman, and in this episode of SoulJoy, I open up about my journey through these hardships and the critical lessons I've learned about burnout, compassion fatigue, and vicarious trauma. These occupational hazards, if left unchecked, can severely impact our body, mind, and soul, stripping away the joy we once felt in our work and lives.

This episode isn't just about my story; it's also a call to action for all professional helpers to recognize and address these hazards before they become overwhelming. Drawing on extensive research and my own experiences, I provide strategies for setting healthy boundaries and reclaiming joy in our personal and professional lives. With a shocking statistic that 70% of helping professionals face these issues, it's time to confront the epidemic of becoming "crispy fried." Through my book "In Pursuit of Joy" and this podcast, I aim to empower you to reconnect with your life and rediscover the joy that may have been lost along the way. Join me as we embark on the journey to reclaim our lives and find our joy again.