The COVID-19 pandemic has put a lot of strain on the healthcare sector and caused another concern to arise – widespread burnout. Burnout is a psychological state that is marked by mental exhaustion, inability to cope with stress and a lack of enthusiasm. It is therefore important to have coping mechanisms in place to combat burnout. Below are a couple of helpful tips for you:
1. Exercise often and engage with other restorative activities: Physical exercise decreases stress and improves your emotional well-being. You can even ask a work colleague or friend to do the exercises with you. Other activities that help with a peaceful state of mind include yoga, massage therapy and acupuncture.
2. Spend time with your loved ones: We often isolate ourselves from our social lives when we feel burned out. Make time for your loved ones, spending time with them will often leave you feeling rejuvenated and happy.
3. Focus on things you can control and let go of things you cannot: There are a lot of frustrations that comes across your path in the healthcare sector. Try to list the things that you have control over and those that you have no control over. Focus your energy only on what you control, otherwise you risk burning out quicker.
4. Monitor your energy levels: Track how you feel so that you can monitor your energy levels. If you feel constantly tired or fatigued, it might be time to take a few days off or increase your engagement in restorative activities. Sometimes finding a hobby that you can invest time in will also help.
5. Identify signs of burnout and get help if needed: Try to view yourself objectively from time to time. If you notice that you are more irritable, get into conflict more often, or increase your usage of coping mechanisms, it might be time to take a breather or seek professional help.
6. Set boundaries and protect them: it is important to set clear boundaries between your work and your personal time. Avoid taking work to home and switch work mode off when you step through your front door.
