You can't pour from an empty cup!
Christmas is always a busy time for hospitals, nursing homes and other residential services. With increasing work-loads and more stress, it can be hard to find time for yourself during the festive season. Transmission rates are high, longer hours and an increased number of patients can lead to fatigue, illness or even burn-out over the holidays. Read on to see what you can do to alleviate any stress and carve out some 'me time' during Christmas.
- Most healthcare facilities can be a high-risk of COVID19 and Flu exposure. Consider getting your up to date Flu and COVID19 Vaccines, all available for free to all healthcare workers. Please visit https://healthservice.hse.ie/staff/covid-19-staff-support/healthcare-worker-vaccines/
- Make sure you take your breaks. Skipping breaks consistently leads to fatigue which may in turn affect your ability to provide care and is not sustainable in the long-run.
- Focus on your nutrition. It can be easy to forget to eat well, especially over Christmas with many patients and their families leaving gifts around for care staff, and you deserve a treat! Be mindful that you are eating enough nutrients to boost your energy over the busy periods and prevent against illness and don't skip meals!
- Get outside. If possible, try to take at least one walk per day in nature. Various studies have shown that being outside in nature can alleviate stress and create a more positive mood, as well as creating Vitamin D, great for your immune system.
- Plan in advance to avoid stress! Are you working Christmas day? Do you need to book a taxi in advance?
- Carve out time for family and friends. This can be especially hard if you are working nights. However, social interactions will help to improve your mood, alleviate stress and benefit your overall mental health.
- Acknowledge, recognise and share your feelings. There is a lot to think about over Christmas, especially for carers and nurses. The idea of staying on top of everything can create anxiety, loneliness and a sense of isolation. The NHS has a great article on mindfulness and how this helps mental wellbeing. Don't be afraid to ask for support!
