Tips to Beat Healthcare Burnout

Burnout can take a toll on every healthcare worker and their patients. Healthcare workers are put under a tremendous amount of stress because of factors such as time pressures, chaotic environments, and overall responsibilities. Burnout is at an all-time high because of the pandemic, as more than 50% of healthcare workers reported symptoms of anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions. These symptoms are most likely a result of burnout. We are going to give you a few tips to beat healthcare burnout and improve your overall mental health as a healthcare worker.  

1. Practice Regular Self-Care 

It is especially important when you are experiencing burnout to take time to yourself and practice regular self-care. Self-care can be anything that makes you feel better. Some examples of self-care are going for walks, writing in a journal, grab a coffee by yourself, and meditating. Finding out which self-care activities work best for you is key, and being intentional with those activities will be extremely beneficial for beating burnout.  

2. Set Boundaries 

Setting boundaries with your employer and following through with them is essential, as working in healthcare can easily consume your entire life. Taking advantage of the time off the clock is important and will help to combat the feeling of burnout. An example of a boundary you can set with your employer is to not check emails or do paperwork when you are not clocked in.  

3. Exercise Regularly  

Doing physical activity has many benefits and can decrease stress and improve your mental health. If you are feeling stressed or frustrated, take some time to move your body may help clear your mind and release those feel-good endorphins.  

4. Spending Time with Friends and Family 

Healthcare schedules can be busy and if you are experiencing burnout you may want to isolate yourself during your free time, but it is so important to socialize with your friends and family as that will bring your energy up. Spending time with people that we love improves our mood and will help with the overall symptoms of burnout.  

5. Get creative  

Finding a new hobby that will take your mind off work, promote relaxation, and help with confidence is a great step. Taking the time to peruse something new can make you feel motivated again and confident that you can accomplish what you wish to.  

Burnout is common in many professions and especially within the healthcare profession. It is important to stay as positive as you can and know that the burnout feeling doesn’t last forever. Taking time for yourself and prioritizing what your body and mind needs will be beneficial in beating the burnout feeling. If your symptoms become unbearable or continue to get worse, it could be a good idea to reach out to professional help, you are not alone and don’t be afraid to ask for help!