3 Strategies To Reduce Burnout As A Physician
Defined as physical and mental fatigue brought about by excessive stress, burnout is a reasonably common problem in various professions, especially in the healthcare sector.
Specifically…
Physicians often experience exhaustion because of the highly stressful nature of the role, and medical practitioners who have reported these feelings have been increasing steadily throughout the years. From bureaucratic tasks to long hours, many causes contribute to it.
However, the results are almost always detrimental to both the doctor and patients alike.
Thankfully, there are ways to address burnout and cope with stress as a physician before it becomes a real problem. In this guide, we’ll cover some of the most effective strategies you can use to keep yourself from its damaging impact.
Continue reading if you want to learn more.
1. Recognize Its Telltale Signs
While there are various ways in which burnouts can manifest, some common indicators are feelings of exhaustion, a lack of drive or motivation, and the inability to manage your professional and personal life.
Of course, there’s always a chance that it’ll overlap with anxiety and depression — in many cases, they can coexist. More physical symptoms like nausea, gastrointestinal disturbances, and headaches are also not out of the ordinary.
As is the case with any problem, the first step is to know that it’s there. Only once you’re aware of its existence can you begin addressing the issue, as you’re more likely to find the source than you would have otherwise.
2. Slow Yourself Down
Because of the busy and frantic nature of the healthcare business, many physicians forget to get off the treadmills of their career, increasing in speed and leaving less room for recovery. It’s not unusual to get swept up in the multitude of different things that need to be done.
As a result, many become slaves to their work. For this reason, you must learn to pace yourself. Don’t be afraid to slow down and limit yourself to a manageable workload. It will make a difference.
3. Try To Work In Locums
The locum tenens career path is increasing in popularity amongst many healthcare professionals and for a good reason. Apart from presenting more opportunities to experience different working environments and generate more income, it also gives the practitioners more control over their schedules.
What this means is that locum tenens workers can choose which assignments and schedules fit their lifestyles more. And best of all, it also reduces administrative duties, the bane of most doctors. So if you’re interested, look into joining a physician staffing firm like Masc Medical. Working in locums may just be what you need to keep yourself from physician burnout.
Conclusion
While it’s often ignored and overlooked, physician burnout is a real concern that needs to be addressed. After all, beyond affecting the doctor’s well-being, it can also keep practitioners from performing their duties the right way, hence impacting the care of their patients. So, follow the strategies laid out above and shield yourself from its repercussions.
Last Updated on November 15, 2021
