Why your wellbeing matters too

As a healthcare professional, you’re dedicated to caring and making a meaningful difference in patients’ lives. The demanding nature of your work, combined with long hours, high-stress environment and exposure to unwell patients, can put on toll on your own wellbeing. Prioritising your own mental and physical health isn’t just beneficial for you personally – it’s crucial to deliver quality patient care. 

Preventing burnout

Burnout develops gradually, often going unnoticed until symptoms become significant. Physical symptoms – headaches, muscle tension, increased illness and bad sleeping patterns are all indicators that your body needs care. Emotional exhaustion, feeling overwhelmed, irritability and feeling disconnected from patients and colleagues are all indicators your emotional and mental health needs some attention. These are all common symptoms with healthcare workers due to the high demands in the workplace. Early recognition helps with a more proactive approach to implementing effective selfcare strategies. 

Wellbeing in the workplace

Prioritise scheduled breaks 

Research shows that even brief breaks can help regulate stress responses. When possible, step outside for fresh air, practice slow breathing exercises, or find a quiet space to sit. 

Maintain proper hydration and nutrition

Staying hydrated and eating nutritious foods are essential for cognitive function and maintaining energy, especially during long working hours. 

Build strong workplace relationships

Strong and supportive colleagues serve as a great support to protect against burnout. Sharing selfcare strategies, debriefing after challenging cases and peer support is invaluable. 

Incorporate mindfulness practices

Short mindfulness exercises between patients can help maintain emotional regulation. Use smartphone apps for guided breathing or meditation techniques that are designed to fit into busy schedules. 

Set boundaries

Setting boundaries with work and your personal life is crucial for overall wellbeing and help you maintain a healthy work-life balance and prevent burnout.  Limit work related communication during your personal time. Protecting your time off is essential for maintaining long term career sustainability. 

Wellbeing beyond work

How you spend your off-duty time can support your overall wellbeing and contribute to building resilience. Integrating good selfcare practices should be integrated into daily life at work and outside of work. 

Quality sleep

Create an optimal sleep environment with minimal light and noise. Maintain consistent sleep routines where possible and recognise that adequate rest is essential for both personal health and professional performance. 

Stay active

Exercise doesn’t need to be intensive to be beneficial. Walking, yoga, being in nature or training for a big event – it all contributes to stress reduction, improved mood regulation and mobility. It’s also a great way to engage with people outside your work environment. 

Cultivate meaningful relationships

Spending time with family, friends or animals provides great emotional support. These connections offer perspective and remind you of life outside work. Take the time to respond to messages, say yes to invitations and call friends. 

Learn something new

Hobbies, creative pursuits and learning a new skill provides mental stimulation in different areas outside work. It’s effective for stress relief and contributes to personal growth.  There’s good reason why during the pandemic we saw a surge in people learning new skills, baking bread and being creative. 

Prioritising your wellbeing is a professional responsibility, not just a personal one. Optimal patient care requires healthcare professionals who are physically healthy, emotionally resilient and mentally sharp. When you’re functioning at your best, everyone benefits. Your patients receive better care, your colleagues have a more reliable team member and your personal life thrives. 

Your expertise and dedication are valuable assets to the healthcare system. Investing in your wellbeing ensures you remain strong and sustainable throughout your career.