Prioritising Self-Care: A Guide For Healthcare Workers 

Disclaimer : These are observations made from counseling sessions and shared to create awareness towards supporting Mental Health.

“After taking a while to take care of ourselves, we at Tatava Studio are back to add to the awareness around Mental Health & Ms Aarti Ahuja is taking sessions , details for appointment  are at the end of the blog.”

India confers respect and admiration on its Healthcare workers by celebrating Doctor’s Day on 1st July every year. The history is important and taken into account but the present work force’s dedication to serving others is unquestionable. The commitment to treating and healing the community, often in high-stress and challenging situations, showcases your resilience. Amidst these demanding roles, it’s crucial to recognize the importance of self-care for healthcare workers and those aspiring to become one. Recently the education system was jostled and the ugly truth of stress leading to burnout for aspirants came back into the limelight. 

I am a practising psychologist who has a scholastic challenge in mathematics. I am dyslexic and have faced a system in the attempt to do my PhD that does not account for supporting me. My 3 attempts to clear the paper and while maintaining my own private practice and fervour towards collecting information around my intended topic, came to a screeching halt. My last two attempts were highly stressful and debilitating on myself. I took a break and will be facing the system with supportive resources and keeping the goal to serve the healthcare workers and community as paramount. While being a mental health professional the demands of the system got to me as well despite following a self-care routine and setting boundaries. 

This personal experience and the follow up clients within the past two months showed me the real demands on healthcare workers and those related to the profession comes from our own self-limiting beliefs. I with my training was able to recognise I needed to evolve myself care routine and change things to cope with the scenario without limiting myself.

Karen Horney stated once “ Life itself remains a very effective therapist”

This well-being is not just essential for a healthcare worker, but it’s also vital for one’s ability to effectively support and care for others. Some strategies and insights tailored for the self-care needs of healthcare workers.

1. Recognizing Signs of Stress and Burnout: Acknowledging the signs of stress and burnout is the first step towards self-care. Emotional exhaustion, negative self talk, and a decreased sense of accomplishment are common indicators. Pay attention to these signals, both in yourself and your colleagues, and encourage candid conversations about mental health.
2. Prioritise Mental Health: Mental well-being is as important as physical health. Engage in mindfulness practices, meditation, or deep breathing exercises to manage stress. Additionally, consider seeking professional help or utilising resources provided within the hospital set up without a stigma of disclosure attached to it. 
3. Establish Boundaries: It’s crucial to establish boundaries between work and personal life. Develop a routine that allows for dedicated time off-duty to rest, recharge, and engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation.
4. Physical Well-being Matters: Proper nutrition, regular exercise, and sufficient sleep are paramount. Despite irregular shifts, strive to maintain a healthy lifestyle to support your body’s resilience and energy levels.
5. Utilise Support Networks: Build and rely on a strong support network, both within your workplace and personal circles. Talking to peers who understand the challenges you face can provide a sense of camaraderie and emotional support.
6. Continuous Learning and Training: Stay updated on coping mechanisms and resilience-building techniques through workshops, seminars, or training sessions offered by the system. Equip yourself with tools to navigate stressful situations effectively.
7. Normalise Self-Care Conversations: Break the stigma surrounding self-care conversations within your own treating doctors. Encourage open discussions and initiatives that prioritise mental health and well-being.
8. Take Breaks and Disconnect: Embrace breaks during shifts whenever possible. Unplugging from work-related communications during off-duty hours can significantly reduce stress and foster a healthier work-life balance.

Remember, prioritising self-care isn’t selfish; it’s a necessity. By taking care of yourself, you enhance your ability to serve others effectively. Your dedication to the community is admirable, and ensuring your well-being is a crucial aspect of maintaining that dedication

Let’s cultivate a culture that values and promotes self-care among healthcare workers that is free of stigma to reach out for mental health support. Together, by prioritising our mental, emotional, and physical health, we can continue to make a positive impact while safeguarding our own well-being.

Tatava Studio Simplifying Wellness is open to take healthcare and allied professionals for sessions. 

Contact Details 

To connect further and enroll in the program.

Aarti Ahuja
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tatvalifestylestudio@gmail.com

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Call : +011 4654 6424 / +91 7678341364
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