By Dana Terrell, LCSW, EAC
All Health Care Providers have a lot of responsibility on their shoulders
Physicians, Dentists, Surgeons, RNs, Acupuncturists, Chiropractors — all Health Care Providers have a lot of responsibility on their shoulders.They are exposed to many patients’ suffering, and are expected to heal them. Sometimes the physician/nurse/teacher/therapist becomes the one in need of healing support. We may become stressed, unable to feel compassion, or traumatized by something we have witnessed.
This is fine. We are human, too. We will have our human needs and responses. The goal, however, is to attend promptly so that the need can be resolved rather than continue to build.
We want a quick return to resilience, rather than requiring a long convalescence and recovery.
You know a lot about self-care already
You already know these principles, and would not have lasted as long as you have without a sense of balanced care for yourself. But we can subtly slip into a stressed state. This is why it is worthwhile, as an individual and as an office, to discuss these issues together, at least annually.
Health care providers can subtly slip into a stressed state
SIGNS OF STRESS:
No time for eye contact
No time for small talk, connecting
Easily frustrated, critical, moody
Rolling eyes, increased sarcasm
Poor sleep, poor health, accidents
SOLUTIONS: Read More Articles in the “Physician, Health Thyself” Series:
How to Gain Amazing Office Growth and Support
©2012 Dana Terrell, LCSW, EAC
