Challenges for Healthcare Workers

One study found that more than half of physicians said their workload affected their mental health. Further, three out of four doctors had witnessed symptoms of burnout among other doctors. The rate of suicide for doctors is more than twice that of the general population and, in fact, higher than any other profession.

The first line of defense is to use strategies to manage and lessen the stress health care workers face. Measures to take could include prioritizing sleep, eating a nutritious diet and exercising consistently. Physical activity is a stress-reducer and mood-enhancer. Avoid turning to alcohol or drugs for stress management. Try reframing by focusing on what you are grateful for or mindfulness techniques to help reset your mood and outlook. The accompanying resource provides additional statistics about mental health in health care workers and potentially effective management techniques.

Graphic created by Mozzaz.