Looking After You
Taking care of yourself is more important than ever during this unprecedented time. In providing care to your patients, you may sometimes, understandably, feel overwhelmed, exhausted, stressed, and anxious. Therefore, it is vital that you look after yourself.
A King’s College London study, published in January 2021, surveyed 709 healthcare staff, between June and July 2020. Results suggested that more than half of the staff who participated reported good wellbeing. However, the research also revealed 45% of staff met the threshold for probable clinical significance, such as:
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severe depression
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post-traumatic stress disorder
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severe anxiety
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problem drinking.
Listed below are some simple tips that we hope you will find useful to help build your resilience levels:
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Basic needs: try to eat well and drink plenty (of water!!). If possible, take regular exercise, and aim to establish a healthy sleep schedule.
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Don’t be a slave to your phone: if you can, turn off your mobile when you go to bed. Don’t let the mobile message alerts disturb your sleep.
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Take breaks: when possible, take a break from patient related duties. Trying to relax and enjoy a hobby or interest, however briefly, can bring mental health benefits.
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Communication with colleagues: talking openly and honestly with colleagues about fears and frustrations can be mutually beneficial.
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Remember your loved ones: stay connected with family and friends, if possible. They may be able to provide emotional support. In these unprecedented times, they will, no doubt, be aware of the pressures facing all healthcare workers. If you have supportive family and friends, do allow them to listen to your fears and concerns.
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Self-reflection: be honest with yourself, if you feel you need support, speak to colleagues or seek professional help.
MP recognise the enormous challenges facing many doctors during this time, and in response, we have developed a series of webinars designed to support you. The webinars will be available on our website in the coming weeks. The first in the series, Avoiding Burnout and Enhancing Resilience is delivered by Dr Suzy Jordache, a clinician with many years of experience in this area.
If you are concerned about your wellbeing and wish to seek confidential, professional advice, numerous organisations provide excellent resources and face-to-face help, such as the GMC Doctor support service, BMA Well being and support services, and NHS Practitioner Health.
Finally, PMP would like to thank you and your colleagues for your tremendous dedication and hard work throughout the pandemic.
This document does not constitute legal or medical advice and should not be construed as rules or establishing a standard of care. Because the facts applicable to your situation may vary, please contact your solicitor, legal advisor or other professional advisors if you have any questions related to your legal or medical obligations or rights, applicable law, contract interpretation, or other legal questions. © 2021 Premium Medical Protection Ltd. All rights reserved.
Premium Medical Protection Ltd. are an appointed representative of Harley Street Insurance Group Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority FRN 570717. Registered in England and Wales, Company Registration Number: 07098260. Registered Office: 25 Athena Court, Athena Drive, Tachbrook Park, Warwick, England, CV34 6RT. Insurance is underwritten by Berkshire Hathaway International Insurance Limited, which is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority FRN 202967 and the Prudential Regulation Authority.
January 2021 V1
