Academic Medicine Open Forum

In an earlier post, @Alison Whelan, MD, shared tips to avoid “compassion fatigue,” a type of exhaustion that comes from being a physician.  Attention to our own well-being is important for all of us—clinicians and non-clinicians alike. Take a look at these tips for good self-care, and consider the related resources below.

• Eat healthy, balanced meals
• Get sufficient sleep
• Exercise regularly
• Treat yourself to your favorite dessert, TV show, book, hobby
• Stay socially connected to friends and family
• Take a vacation or a day off
• Make time for religion, yoga, meditation, or mindfulness practice

 

On making time for yourself…

• Hospitals supporting staff wellness and encouraging vacation: “Providers in early hot spots rest and prepare for what’s next”
• Don’t fall into the busyness trap: “Feeling overwhelmed? Make more time for love and play”
• Frontline workers share coping mechanisms: “Great escapes: Doctors and nurses find respite from pandemic fatigue”

 

On self-care…

• Modeling self-care: “Medical faculty need to foster resilience in students (and in themselves)”
• On mindfulness: “Bringing the lessons of mindfulness to medical school”
• Practicing an attitude of gratitude: “Thanks, a lot”
• Journaling and self-reflection: ScribeMD Self-Reflection Program for Medical Students
• Toolkit for managing yourself (and others): Leading in Difficult Times

 

On clinician burnout…

• Examining the new role of Chief Wellness Officer: “Doctors in distress”
• Tips for taking care of yourself: “Coping with sickness and stress”

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Stephanie Weiner
Director, Digital Strategy & Engagement
Association of American Medical Colleges
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