Advocating for multiple patients is your daily challenge. How do you prevent burnout and stay effective?

People work in healthcare settings because they want to make a difference in the lives of others. They are often caring, empathetic individuals who will do whatever it takes to put their clients' needs first. The problem is, this often isn't sustainable, especially when coming up against broken systems, and at times, clients who may not appreciate the challenges we face to deliver the supports they need within these systems. Health professionals are starting to get better with setting boundaries - saying no - on the outside, but an inner turmoil still remains when this is in conflict with their values of wanting to help others. We say no, but it doesn't sit right with us. Seeking support to help work through these feelings can be valuable.

In my years of experience, I've learned that setting boundaries is not just about saying no, it's about clear communication and managing expectations. As a patient advocate, it's crucial to establish these boundaries early on to maintain a healthy balance between professional responsibilities and personal well-being. This approach not only benefits the advocate but also ensures that patients receive the best possible support.

I've found that incorporating activities like exercise or meditation into my routine significantly reduces stress. It's important to set aside time for these practices, as they help maintain a clear mind and prevent burnout, allowing me to be more present and effective for my patients.

Engaging with fellow community isn't just beneficial, it's necessary. It's a space where we can share not just the burdens but also the wins, and learn from each other's experiences. This mutual trust is vital in a field where emotional fatigue can easily set in.

Peer support can come in multiple forms. Think about the different types that can be beneficial, how to create them and when to use them. Some suggestions- 1) safe space to let off steam or access immediate or debrief quickly from a difficult experience 2) More structured peer supervision, resilience based supervision or coaching circles. Allowing you to talk through experiences as both a de-loading and learning process 3) More general networking to feel part of a community, pick up advice and learn from other experiences. Remember to look outside your immediate peers. You want to both be able to access good practice from further afield and also avoid group think (or group moan).

In my experience, effective time management has been pivotal in providing each patient with the care they need. Prioritizing tasks is not just about ticking off a checklist. It's about understanding the urgency and impact of each action on patient outcomes. Delegating tasks to the right team members allows for a more efficient workflow and ensures that patients are always receiving attention from someone who is fully present and not overburdened. Setting realistic daily goals is essential to maintain high-quality care without compromising on the well-being of healthcare providers.

As a clinician and coach in the healthcare. The continuous learning is crucial not only for enhancing advocacy skills but also for maintaining a sense of professional fulfillment. It keeps the work dynamic, helps in innovating new approaches, and is a key strategy in preventing burnout. Engaging intellectually with new information and techniques ensures we can provide the best care and support for our patients.

Just as you advocate for others, advocate for your own needs and well-being within your organization or community. Recognize signs of burnout or excessive stress and seek professional help if needed. This might involve consulting a mental health professional, a coach, or a trusted friend or mentor.