Menu
Menu
Being a locum doctor often comes with unique challenges, including managing long hours, high-pressure environments, and adapting quickly to new settings. Prioritising your wellbeing is essential for providing the best care to your patients and maintaining your own health. Here are some practical tips to support your physical and mental wellness:
Good nutrition plays a significant role in maintaining both physical and mental health. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, seeds, and healthy fats can support your resilience and energy. Here are a few tips:
Establish a regular eating pattern: Aim to eat at consistent times rather than substituting snacks for meals.
Stay hydrated: Drink water regularly to maintain focus and stamina throughout your shift.
Choose nutrient-dense foods: When meal prepping, include ample servings of fruits and vegetables.
Avoid skipping meals or relying on fast food: Busy days can be hectic, but regular, nutritious meals fuel both mind and body.
For more insights, check out the HSE’s guidelines on “Eating Healthily to Improve Mental Health.”
Working in high-stress situations, particularly in unpredictable environments, can strain mental wellbeing. Incorporate these practices to help manage stress:
Take regular breaks: Aim for a full lunch break and brief breaks throughout the day to recharge.
Reach out for support: If feeling overwhelmed, communicate with colleagues to balance the workload and maintain quality care.
Maintain a consistent sleep schedule: Regular rest helps you stay alert and better prepared for patient care.
Seek professional support if needed: Don’t hesitate to get professional help for challenges like anxiety or depression.
Mental Health Ireland offers numerous resources, including booklets, videos, webinars, and podcasts, that may be helpful.
Physical activity is a cornerstone of both physical and mental wellbeing. Integrating movement into your day can enhance energy levels and reduce stress:
Get at least 30 minutes of exercise daily: A brisk walk, cycling to work, or walking during lunch can fit into a busy day.
Incorporate morning exercises: Simple stretches or brief workouts can help start your day feeling refreshed.
Track your progress: Fitness apps can help set goals for steps or activity, keeping you motivated.
Take the stairs: Small changes, like opting for stairs over the lift, add movement and can provide a mental break.
Keep active throughout the day: Whether walking between departments or during breaks, short bursts of activity add up.
The HSE provides further information on how physical activity can promote positive mental health.
For optimal health, it’s essential to have your own GP who is not a family member. This ensures unbiased care and follows professional guidelines:
Avoid self-prescribing or treating yourself: According to the Guide to Professional Conduct & Ethics (8th edition), self-treatment is not advised.
Do not treat friends or family members: Only in emergencies should you consider this, as objectivity is crucial.
Seek help finding a GP: Your employer or the Irish College of General Practitioners can help you locate a nearby GP.
Additionally, the Doctor Wellbeing Guide provides advice on managing concerns for colleagues, the Medical Council’s Health Committee, and other wellbeing resources for doctors.
Taking care of yourself is essential to providing quality care to others. By prioritising these self-care practices, you can strengthen your own health, improve patient interactions, and continue thriving in your vital role as a locum doctor.
Want to learn about the latest GP opportunities? Contact Laura today.
First of all check out our FAQs section, it might just have what you need.
