PLX Academy · Personal Experiences · 04 April 2022
MENTAL HEALTH DURING THE OMICRON SURGE
The Mayo Clinic reported that 42% of physicians experience burnout during the COVID Crisis. For mental health and physical well-being, they, like everyone else, need to focus on the things they control, be flexible and in touch with the people who matter to them, practice and meditate regularly, and protect themselves from bad news. Of course, if they cannot overcome the negative health diseases, it is good to consult an expert on mental health.
We have come a long way since March 2020, with vaccines and medications to fight COVID, but breakthrough cases are increasing and so are feelings of anxiety, depression, and stress. The Omicron variant brings isolation once again, and оne’s mental well-being is in question. Being in isolation is also overwhelming and it will be essential to focus on emotional well-being.
It does not matter what industry you serve, you can still get overwhelmed. But out of all the professions out there, physicians and medical professionals are in the worst situation. Although they may seem invincible, they are susceptible to the same illnesses that they are treating patients for and psychological disorders know no boundaries. The nature of their profession requires them to help people in their weakest states but that is near impossible if they are not the best version of themselves. Healthcare professionals increasingly face depression, high stress, and emotional exhaustion. Each of these severe ailments leads to burnout.
Mayo Clinic found that 42% of physicians experienced symptoms of burnout in 2021. Тhis number has probably increased. Therefore, medical professionals like everyone else should take care of their well-being during the Omicron surge. Here are 10 tips for that.
1. It is OK to feel uncertain
Even if you are a physician, you should be aware that you know a lot about the Omicron variant, but there is still a lot that is not yet known. The unknown often triggers anxiety and stress (similar to those early days in March 2020), as well as loneliness, depression, and maybe grief if you have lost someone to the virus. It is important to remember that it is perfectly normal to feel however you are feeling, and bringing awareness to your feelings can help bring relief.
2. Focus on what you can control
When so much is in flux and unknown, it is important to focus on the things you can control like: observing the protocols for personal and patient safety – wearing a mask indoors, getting vaccinated if you can, and ensuring everyone in your family does the same. By feeling a sense of control with the ‘small stuff’ and using own expertise in taking care of people in the hospital, you will feel more confident knowing you are doing all you can to keep you and your patients safe and healthy.
3. Be flexible
Your free time is reduced, and vacations are short, especially now that many patients are seeking medical attention. Making plans for holidays during this time is tricky, it is hard to commit to plans, especially if friends and family have different levels of worry in regards to COVID. What is important is to do what is best for yourself and your family. Knowing how unpredictable the virus is and its effects on travel and social gatherings, remind yourself there is a chance you will have to stay home, and that is OK. Create a list of movies you have been meaning to see, restaurants to order from, or fun meals you have wanted to make.
4. Try to stay in touch with your loved ones
Physicians and medical staff are in constant contact with patients and do their best to provide medical care to all who need it. But in your spare time, it will be imperative for you to connect with your friends and family members during these unprecedented times. So, just to open up about your feelings, try to speak to your loved ones and discuss with them if anything is bothering you.
5. Protect yourself from triggers
Maybe that means silencing your news alerts after 5 pm or turning down an invitation to a crowded party. Do not read negative information on social networks. By recognizing things or people who trigger your anxiety during this time of heightened nerves and getting ahead of them, you will protect yourself and your mental well-being.
6. Digital detox
Despite 24/7 availability for patients, outside of working hours as well as on your mobile phone, you should try to have gadgets-free zones at home. For example, avoid using your phone or any other electronic gadget while eating or in the bedroom.
7. Do activities that you like
After a hard day in the hospital and communication with many patients, which requires you to listen and understand them, once you are home, you have an opportunity to pursue your hobbies. Do what makes you happy. You can read, watch movies, cook, learn photography, do gardening, draw or learn to play an instrument or a new language, or try to do an online course. If you do not do activities that you like, you will only keep thinking about the pandemic and that can further lead to anxiety, stress, depression, irritability, frustration, and anger. Try to exercise at home and stay stress-free. Exercising can release feel-good hormones (endorphins). Even 10-15 minutes of regular exercise gives the body a boost for better well-being.
8. Try relaxation techniques and practice awareness
Certain relaxation techniques like meditation and yoga can help ease anxiety and stress. You will be able to rejuvenate and stay calm. Be aware of your movements, and try to put 100 percent focus and attention on the task at hand rather than thinking about too many things at the same time. Awareness should be practiced in all activities.
9. Be kind to yourself
Аs you are kind and committed to your patients, be kind and committed to yourself. Try to have some ‘me’ time at home. Pamper yourself by nourishing your skin and hair, following a well-balanced diet, and taking good care of yourself.
10. Acceptance can help
You need to have an open mind. If you are anxious, try to find the root cause, but you can also get the help of a therapist оr expert on mental health, to calm you down and help you stay stress-free. Do not be in denial mode. Accept that you are anxious due to the COVID situation, and you have to make peace with this ‘new normal’ and learn to live with it.