How to Prioritize Relaxation as a Healthcare Professional

Working in the healthcare industry can be taxing and overwhelming at times. We provide invaluable life-saving services, often at the expense of our mental health. Healthcare workers need to prioritize relaxation, as it is crucial not only to their own mental health but also to their ability to work efficiently.

There are a few methods healthcare workers can use to prioritize relaxation, such as embracing the outdoors, trying breathing exercises, going for walks, openly talking with their employers if they are feeling unwell, and considering talking to a licensed therapist. Making time for a regular exercise routine, connecting with family and friends, and setting boundaries that separate work from personal/family time is also important.

Embrace Mother Nature

To begin with, healthcare workers should take advantage of the calming elements of nature by embracing the outdoors. Doing simple things such as embracing the fresh air, taking in the scenery, or going for a walk can be incredibly helpful in reducing stress. Regular breaks are also important for healthcare workers and can help keep them refreshed and productive.

We Get By With A Little Help From Our Friends

Another key element of relaxation is finding time for some social connections. It’s easy to get so wrapped up in work and forget to take time for connections with friends and family who provide an important source of support.

If you work during the day, finding time for social activities can be difficult, but setting aside some time for this can be a big stress reliever.

Therapy is a Tool

If needed, therapy can be useful to aid in prioritizing relaxation. Licensed therapists have experience dealing with stress and can help you manage your work-life balance. This is especially important for healthcare workers, as they may experience more unique kinds of stress than other professionals.

Healthcare workers are the unsung heroes of the pandemic, working tireless hours to care for those who need them. However, in order to stay healthy and provide ongoing care to those in need, healthcare workers should strive to limit the amount of work they take home. Trying to balance a workload that meets their job expectations and requires self-care can be difficult and often leads to burnout. In order to avoid this, taking regular breaks throughout the day, utilizing appropriate resources to facilitate their workload, and identifying any areas of need or additional help are essential. 

Use Your Vacation Time

Taking paid time off (PTO) is recommended as this can allow both the physical and mental rest needed to return to work refreshed. This can also allow healthcare workers to focus on family and personal needs without having the pressures of their job looming in the background. By managing and limiting workload at home, healthcare workers can ensure that they are providing the best possible care and remain healthy.

Draw a Line

Finally, setting boundaries between work and home is essential for a healthy work-life balance. Taking steps such as declining after-hours meetings, setting a strict schedule, and avoiding doing extra work when on a break are all important for managing stress.

By prioritizing relaxation while working in healthcare, healthcare workers can ensure they are doing their best to stay healthy and productive in both their work and home life. Taking the time to embrace the outdoors, practice breathing exercises, talk to a therapist, take breaks, use time off, and set boundaries between work and home can all contribute to improved mental health and building resilience.