The Importance of Self-Care in Psychiatry
Protecting Yourself From Burnout
Working in psychiatry is incredibly rewarding, but it can also be mentally and physically exhausting if you don’t take care of yourself. I’ve learned the hard way that self-care isn’t just about getting through the day—it’s about making sure you can keep doing what you love for the long haul.
Taking Breaks: Small Steps for Big Gains
One of the simplest but most effective forms of self-care is taking regular breaks throughout the day. It might seem like pausing for a few minutes of deep breathing or stretching could slow you down, but in reality, these small acts can make a big difference. A quick break helps your mind reset, reduces stress, and keeps burnout at bay. Stretching also helps counteract the strain from sitting for long periods, especially if you’re often hunched over notes or a computer.
Sick Time is More Than Just Being Sick
In my previous work, I rarely used sick time unless I was genuinely ill. But in the emotional and high-pressure world of psychiatry, I’ve learned that sometimes you need to take a step back before you hit a wall. Using sick time for mental health days, or simply for downtime, can be a proactive way to maintain your overall well-being. This doesn’t mean you’re avoiding work; it means you’re taking care of yourself so you can be at your best for others.
Prioritizing Sleep:
Good sleep is the cornerstone of both mental and physical health. Your ability to think clearly, make decisions, and empathize with your patients is directly tied to how well-rested you are. Prioritizing sleep isn’t a luxury—it’s essential.
Practicing Self-Kindness
Being kind to yourself is a crucial part of self-care that often gets overlooked. In a profession where you’re constantly caring for others, it’s easy to be hard on yourself when things don’t go as planned. Practicing self-kindness means acknowledging your limits, giving yourself grace when you need it, and celebrating your successes, no matter how small. It’s about treating yourself with the same compassion you show to others. I also try to check in with what I need with a running dialog – asking myself – “how ya doing right now – what do you need”? OR, “doing good! – almost done!”
The Value of Having Your Own Therapist
You know the importance of therapy for your patients, but what about for yourself? Having your own therapist gives you a confidential space to process your thoughts, feelings, and the emotional weight of your work. It’s a vital tool for maintaining your mental health and ensuring you can keep providing the best care possible. It also expands your ability to see what bias you bring to the table.
Investing in Yourself
Self-care isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. The demands of your job are unique, and so are the ways you need to care for yourself. Taking breaks, using sick time for mental health, prioritizing good sleep, incorporating movement, practicing self-kindness, and seeking therapy are all essential practices. By investing in yourself, you’re not only enhancing your well-being—you’re also making sure you can keep doing the work you love for years to come. Your patients rely on you, but it’s just as important to rely on yourself too.
