Self-Care Tips for Healthcare Workers

As a medical professional, you’re constantly caring for others. However, to best serve your patients, you must take care of yourself too. Here are seven self-care tips for healthcare workers.

Self-Care for Healthcare Workers

  • Pay Attention to YOUR Health

    You owe it to yourself and your patients to stay healthy. Therefore, avoid a “do as I say not as do” attitude. Follow the same rules as you set for those for whom you provide care. Wash your hands, get a flu shot, and keep up to date on your doctor’s appointments and health screenings.

  • Get Enough Sleep

    Logging between seven to nine hours of rest each night not only keeps you alert on the job but also benefits your overall health. Lack of sleep has been linked to weight gain, heart disease, diabetes, and depression. For the best results, try to go to bed and wake up at around the same time every day.

  • Eat a Healthy Diet

    The right foods will keep you healthy and energized. Plus, a healthy diet doesn’t have to be complicated. In less than five minutes, you can throw together an apple, a bag of nuts, and a whole-grain granola bar. For more ideas, check out these 50 Foods That Are Super Healthy.

  • Exercise Regularly

    As with getting enough sleep and maintaining a healthy diet, a fitness routine will improve your physical health and mental well-being. And remember, this doesn’t mean you need to train to run a marathon. Start small and build your program over time. For example, you could join a yoga class, walk during your lunch break or participate in a community sports team.

  • Schedule Non-Negotiable Me Time

    No matter how busy you are, you still should do things you enjoy. These fun activities will allow you to recharge and manage your stress levels. If you have trouble setting aside Me Time, begin your week by adding a few non-negotiable events to your calendar. These may include dinner with a friend, a playdate with your kids, or even a relaxing movie night at home.

  • Practice Self Compassion

    Despite your heroic efforts, at times you won’t be able to give your patients all the care you feel they deserve. Don’t beat yourself up. Compassion, toward both yourself and your patients, is far more valuable than perfection.

  • Recognize the Importance of What You Do

    All healthcare workers play a vital role in our society. You make a difference every day! Thus, start and end each shift by recognizing and celebrating the value of the work you do.

 

Are You Hoping to Take Better Care of Yourself by Finding a New Job?

If your current role is taking a toll on your well-being, Anodyne Staffing can match you with a more appropriate fit. We place caregivers, HHAs and CNAs in Quincy, Massachusetts, and beyond. Browse our available openings and discover your next opportunity today!