Healthcare workers are experiencing sky-high rates of burnout. In a recent survey by Washington Post, 55% of front-line staff reported physical and mental exhaustion from chronic job-related stress. Workers are clocking long hours in understaffed facilities with too many patients and little support. Now more than ever, it’s essential that healthcare workers take the proper steps to nurture their emotional and mental health.
If you work in healthcare, here are some self-care tips to help you avoid burnout and stay healthy:
Learn how to say no.
You can’t deliver the quality care your patients need as a nurse if you’re drowning in work. You shouldn’t feel obligated to take on more responsibility, hours, or patients than you can. If you’re feeling pressured by your manager to max out your workload, arrange a sit-down with them so you can voice your concerns.
Lean on your coworkers.
Nobody understands your work stress better than the people you work with. Try to open up to your coworkers when you’re overwhelmed – and ask for help when needed. A support system at work will help get you through hard days and give you a safe space to vent when you’re struggling.
Consider talking to a pro about your mental health.
If you think you might need a little extra support, consider connecting with a mental health professional. A therapist can help you work through negative thoughts and introduce you to better cognitive tools to manage stress. If you don’t have time for in-person visits, these online therapy companies can match you with a counselor for convenient virtual sessions.
Make the most of your time off.
Whatever your off time looks like, ensure you’re giving your mind and body a necessary break. Whether that means lying on the couch or going to a rock concert, try to turn off your nurse brain and relax. That way, you can return to work feeling refreshed and energized.
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