In pursuit of wellness: The self-care imperative.

The practice of psychology can be demanding, challenging, and emotionally taxing. Failure to adequately attend to one's own psychological wellness and self-care can place the psychologist at risk for impaired professional functioning. An ongoing focus on self-care is essential for the prevention of burnout and for maintaining one's own psychological wellness. Salient aspects of self-care are discussed, including the ethical imperative of addressing self-care throughout one's career. Three invited expert commentaries provide additional insights and recommendations on positive actions, preventive strategies, and steps to be taken by individual psychologists, by those training the next generation of psychologists, and by professional associations. Realities of the current state of psychology and a clear call for action are highlighted, with the overarching goal being the ethical and effective treatment of clients and the successful management of the challenges and stresses faced by practicing psychologists. Baker, Elman, and Schoener provide commentaries on the initial article by Barnett. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)