The medical fraternity has seen a sharp incline in the deterioration of their mental health specifically in areas like stress, anxiety, depression, substance disorder and burn-out. The main causal factors for the surge in rates are extensive working hours, poor prognosis of patients, argumentative interactions and interpersonal interactions with colleagues.Due to its high pressure, doctors and healthcare workers tend to experience high levels of burn-out and occupational stress but tackling the emotional exhaustion can improve enthusiasm for work, feel hopeful and successful. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Shamantha K, Counselling Psychologist at Fortis Hospitals on Bangalore's Cunningham Road, shared some of the ways doctors and healthcare workers can de-stress:
1. Meditation along with physical exercise- to improve the mind and body’s resilience
2. Rest and leisure- quality sleep, frequent power naps, breathing exercises, yoga, and so on
3. Practice mindfulness
4. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle
5. Socialising
6. Indulging in various therapies like music, art, movement, aroma, or animals
7. Journaling gratitude, stress levels and emotions
8. De-cluttering physical spaces