In the fast-paced and demanding world of healthcare, it’s easy for healthcare professionals to neglect their well-being.
But the truth remains: to effectively care for others, you must first care for yourself!
Solid self-care practices can support you as you learn the ropes, especially as a new or early career starter.
Our friends at Calvary share their tips for self-care as healthcare professionals and why it’s so important.
Why is Self-Care so Important for Healthcare Professionals?
Self-care is not a luxury but a necessity, especially for those in healthcare roles.
The demanding nature of the job, long hours, exposure to trauma, and the weight of responsibility can take a toll on even the most resilient individuals.
So, why is self-care essential for healthcare professionals?
- Prioritising self-care enhances overall well-being, enabling professionals to sustain themselves physically, mentally, and emotionally.
- By engaging in activities that promote relaxation, stress reduction, and work-life balance, healthcare providers can replenish their energy reserves and prevent exhaustion.
- Practising self-care fosters resilience, allowing professionals to bounce back from challenges and adversity more effectively.
Preventing Burn Out & Compassion Fatigue
Self-care serves as a preventive measure against burnout and compassion fatigue, two prevalent issues in the healthcare field:
- Burnout is characterised by emotional exhaustion, depersonalisation, and reduced personal accomplishment. It can lead to decreased job performance and increased turnover rates.
- Compassion fatigue, resulting from prolonged exposure to suffering and trauma, can diminish empathy and impair the ability to connect with patients.
By incorporating self-care practices into their daily routines, healthcare professionals can mitigate the risk of burnout and compassion fatigue.
Self-Care Practices to Try
Establishing a robust self-care regimen from the outset is paramount for new and aspiring healthcare professionals.
It’s important to note that self-care is very personal and all about finding the right actions and activities that support you as an individual. Try a few things to see what works for you.
Here are some practical strategies to prioritise self-care amidst the demands of the healthcare profession you can explore:
- Set Boundaries: Learn to say no when necessary and establish clear boundaries between work and personal life. Allocate time for relaxation, hobbies, and spending quality time with loved ones.
- Practice Mindfulness: Incorporate mindfulness techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga into your daily routine. These practices can help reduce stress, increase self-awareness, and cultivate resilience.
- Seek Support: Build a strong support network of colleagues, mentors, friends, and family members who understand the challenges of the healthcare profession. Don’t hesitate to reach out for support or seek professional help if needed.
- Engage in Self-Reflection: Regularly reflect on your experiences, emotions, and reactions to patient care. Acknowledge and process any feelings of stress, frustration, or compassion fatigue, and consider seeking supervision or counselling as needed.
- Prioritise Physical Health: Maintain a healthy lifestyle by prioritising exercise, nutritious eating, adequate sleep, and regular medical check-ups. Physical well-being is intrinsically linked to mental and emotional health.
One Final Crucial Self-Care Factor
A supportive workplace!
It is crucial to find the right employer who fully understands your journey and challenges, especially as a new employee in the sector.
The right employer will know how to work with you to ensure you get the most out of your early experiences while still taking care of yourself.
Calvary offers several early career programs with built-in support opportunities, mentoring, and opportunities to grow professionally in ways that work for YOU.
Self-care isn’t one size fits all, and neither is your carer. Head to [Insert employer name}’s profile now to learn how they can help you find the best balance.
