Research shows that when a problem is put into words, it gets clarified, a first and vital step.1,2 Now that the physician has had a chance to note what he or she is feeling about the problem, the emotions can be dealt with separately from the issue itself.
Regardless of what method you use, Singer states the obvious: Get enough sleep, exercise and eat healthy. “This may sound silly, but physicians often do the least self-care of any profession,” she says. “Remember what they say on airplanes: ‘Put your own oxygen mask on first; then help others.’”
Another way to help you refocus, Dr. Raymond says, is to use phone apps that:
- Record mood;
- Have video and audio of natural beauty with peaceful sounds;
- Have recordings of the physician reminding him/herself to monitor stress and take regular five-minute mental breaks; and
- Play calming music—something known to help with anxiety and frustration.
Handling an Urgent Problem
Sometimes, there is no time to think, just to react. If the physician is feeling stressed or overcome with grief, anger or fear or is just overwhelmed, “he or she needs to take a five- to 10-minute time out,” Dr. Raymond says. “If it’s a family problem, then take time to make a phone call and arrange for the family member to receive attention and appropriate care.”
Dr. Chabra is privileged to work in a group with five rheumatologists who can cover for each other if necessary. “Each week, we block time on the schedule for each of us to handle non-direct patient care issues,” he says. “So if one of us needs to tend to an urgent matter during patient care hours, a colleague can fill in.”
Dr. Raymond works with many physicians who are perfectionistic, with high anxiety and stress levels. “They channel their emotions into their work and don’t want to deal with their personal lives—making more problems for themselves in the long run,” she says. “I have successfully encouraged them to take breaks for lunch, to walk—not sit—and to have a chance to be in natural surroundings even for five or 10 minutes on a regular basis. Problems will seem less urgent and much easier to deal with.”
Masini suggests acknowledging the problem and timeframe. “If you ignore this, you pass on your anxiety to the people you’re working with,” she says. “Make a decision on how to handle the problem—whether it’s canceling the rest of the day’s work, clearing an hour to deal with it or another means. Simply taking charge will alleviate some stress you have from wondering how to deal with it.”
Sharing Details with Staff
When telling a co-worker that you must take time off immediately to tend to a pressing matter, how much should you divulge?
