Doctors spend a lot of energy and time worrying for their patients to the point where they tend to overlook their own problems. Consequently, incidences of physician burnout have been growing at a concerning rate. In fact, based on a study involving seven thousand participating physicians, over forty percent had reported burnout symptoms, making career fatigue common among healthcare providers more than other workers in the United States.
Moreover, because incidences are underreported, the number of physicians experiencing burnout could be higher. Fortunately, there are things you can do to lessen the impact of the stress that comes with the job. With that said, here are some tips to avoid burnout.
Start the day right
Rather than rushing out of bed to get to work, give yourself enough time to perform gentle stretches, practice some breathing techniques, read words of inspiration, and meditate. It may sound simple, but these exercises can have a surprisingly calming effect that will enable you to begin your day on the right foot instead of the wrong one. And by doing so, you’ll feel less stressed.
Incorporate healthy sleeping habits
Health experts understand the importance of a good night’s rest. However, so many doctors don’t get enough of it. As a result, it compromises the processes the body goes through while resting, such as repairing the blood vessels and immune system. This leaves them more vulnerable to falling ill. In addition, it also affects their ability to think clearly, which can potentially be dangerous when advising patients on what to do.
For these reasons, you must get seven or eight hours of rest every night. Set clear boundaries and leave work at the workplace when you get home. In this way, you’ll be able to create an environment where you can relax, free yourself from any work-related distractions, and get more sleep.
Eat healthily
Another area of a doctor’s lifestyle that often gets compromised is their dietary regimen. In the interest of saving time, many forgo preparing well-balanced meals and make do with the ironically unhealthy cafeteria food. Because of this, they don’t get the nutrients their bodies require to function optimally, leaving them more tired in turn. Don’t make the same mistake, and be sure to include sizable portions of fruits and vegetables in your meals. It will make a difference.
Manage your time
Lastly, time management is the key to preventing burnout. However, if you cannot fix your workload, consider locum tenens jobs, as they can give you more flexibility regarding your schedule. In addition, becoming a locum practitioner can present you with opportunities to travel, experience new working environments, and earn more.
Conclusion
Burnouts are more severe than they’re given credit for, not only for healthcare providers but also for their patients. As such, it’s essential to take measures to lessen its impact, if not avoid it altogether. These tips should allow you to prevent yourself from burning out, have a healthier lifestyle, and be happy in your career.
