You're facing difficult patient cases daily. How do you prioritize your emotional well-being?

I've learned that self-care is not just a luxury, it's a necessity. Establishing a self-care routine has been crucial in managing the emotional toll of patient advocacy. Whether it's a few minutes of meditation before a procedure or a walk after a long day, these small acts of self-kindness can make a significant difference in maintaining emotional resilience. Remember, taking care of yourself is the first step in taking care of others.

Balance is very important. I use a variety of techniques including mindfulness, muscle relaxation, laughter yoga, essential oils, weighted blanket and gratitude.

One thing I have found helpful is knowing when to give yourself ‘a break’. Listen to your body so you can know when to slow down, give your body, mind and soul the desired rest then continue pushing.

Self care routines ara a necessity to all patient advocate .so you should be able to deal with the emotional stress in order to be able to better advocate for your patients. There are simple routines like going for a massage , a walk etc

Over the years I found it useful to incorporate art, poetry, music and exercise into self care routines. Being open to changes is imperative and is easier said than done. Having a counsellor or support group is super helpful to talk about issues and find solutions. Self acceptance and self love are essential.

In my years of practice, I've learned that setting emotional boundaries is not just about self-preservation; it's about being the best advocate for your patients. There have been times when I've had to step back and assess my emotional capacity to ensure I can provide the highest level of care without compromising my well-being. It's a delicate balance, but one that's crucial in healthcare. Remember, taking care of yourself is not selfish; it's necessary to be an effective caregiver.

Setting emotional boundaries in the workplace are extremely important. If you don’t learn to take the necessary steps to protect our emotional physical and psychological well-being in the workplace, the stress can sit in and burn out occurs. Learning to leave work at work is important and not taking on more responsibilities than you can physically or emotionally handle during the course of your work schedule..

The need for peer support cannot be understated. While talking to family and friends about the emotional burden of this work can be helpful, it is different when you're speaking to someone who you know can fully understand your lived experience. Reminders that you're not alone, that there are other advocates fighting the good fight beside you, and (maybe most importantly) that there are wonderful people in your field who will continue this important work even when you need to take a break- can make all the difference. Fight the urge to fold into yourself when the weight of this work is especially heavy.

Absolutely agree and now even more the world is moving towards Inclusion Involvement Meaningful Engagement etc because the value addition is without question.

In my years as an endodontist, I've seen the emotional toll that difficult patient cases can take on healthcare professionals. Prioritizing self-care and setting emotional boundaries are crucial for maintaining our well-being. I've found that peer support is invaluable; discussing challenges with colleagues can provide new perspectives and coping strategies. Seeking professional help when needed is a sign of strength, not weakness. Reflective practice and mindful engagement with our work can also help us manage stress and prevent burnout. Remember, taking care of ourselves enables us to provide the best care for our patients.

Reflective practice has been a cornerstone in my journey as an endodontist. It allows me to dissect complex cases, understand my emotional responses, and refine my approach to patient care. By reflecting, I've learned to balance the technical precision required in 3D-printed solutions with the empathy needed to support my patients through their treatment journey. This practice not only improves my well-being but also elevates the level of care I provide.

Remind yourself that you are possibly the only health care professional at that moment who can help, impact and make a difference for that challenging patient and family. That is the main reason and purpose we find our selves doing what we do.

In my years of practice, I've learned that mindful engagement with patients isn't just about being present during appointments. It's about truly listening and understanding their concerns, fears, and hopes. This approach has not only improved my patients' experiences but has also helped me maintain my emotional well-being amidst the daily challenges of healthcare. By prioritizing reflective practice and setting emotional boundaries, I've been able to provide compassionate care while safeguarding my mental health.

The archetype of the healer is required to be channeled when working in this type of field . Pain and suffering surround you daily, people coming to you at their lowest points and some of the darkest days of their lives. you are a vessel for healing light. stay sharp, stay professional, stay focused, just remember you carry a torch. there have been healers before you and there will be healers after you to continue on our never-ending mission

To carry out my my duties effectively, team management is key and essential, communication is key when you are handling too many tasks that could be shared amongst colleagues. Burnout is one of those things we face in a health care settings when we overwork and stretch our limits, to prevent burnout, we should have time for exercise which is not just good to the body but the mind, eat or maintain good diets, sleep adequately if not enough. But if it's too demanding always speak to a supervisor.