By Charles Jarvis, LMHC
These past two years have been hard for all of us, especially those in healthcare. The patients I see are still in need of help – identifying financial resources, marital discord, or commonly heightened adverse coping as a catalyst for their crisis. I find it difficult to deal with added frustration in my personal life, especially since those resources have been exhausted during the day.
But keep in mind, these problems were probably always present – however exacerbated based on our current global crisis. I would wager, people had enough emotional reserves to manage these issues before – but now we had asked their kids to remote learn, they cannot go into the office, and items such as food at the grocery store or mundane items such as accommodations to a vacation have either increased or provided additional barriers to secure? It’s no wonder people are struggling.
To address this, I have been reflecting for the past six months to both recognize and address burnout. In addition to managing this to provide the best therapeutic stage for the people we support. I have found these specific triggers, which need to be addressed in order to resolve.
Feeling inadequate or unwilling to attend duties
Keep in mind, each day is a new day. Each day is a chance to move forward and reflect on your choices. If we are reflecting on employment, it is reasonable to realize this is a task you have enjoyed and will enjoy in the future. This is your thing! Focus on what made you want to do these things in the first place, and reflect on the betterment these items provide to your life.
Increased Fatigue
We have all felt this when approaching a deadline, or feeling our goals are not satisfied to our liking. Keep in mind that we need time and space to heal, leaving us a space to resume our tasks. It is ok to say no, and it is ok to set appropriate boundaries. On your path to wellness there are many critics, however the ones who matter share or support your voice.
Experiencing Sleep Problems
Stress tends to steal from our day to day functioning. It aims to take, consider our thoughts, and punish us for a multitude of reasons. Sleep, appetite, and daily functioning can combat this effectively. Make sure you are hydrated, eat appropriate things, and attend a proper sleep routine.
Burnout can negatively affect all we have built and impact our lives in very unforeseen ways. It is something we have always been warned about, but can be devastating when finding ourselves trapped in these patterns. Remember, be proactive, recognize these feelings, and reflect on your goals. Believe this is something well managed with a bit of support.
About Charles Jarvis, LMHC
Charles Jarvis is a licensed mental health counselor practicing in Massachusetts with a master’s degree in counseling psychology. He has been working in mental health since 2008 and has held a variety of critical roles. As a community hospital site manager, he has a specialized focus on those in the community experiencing mental health crises. In addition, he has worked in outpatient therapy, day, and community programs as well as specializing in populations with life-threatening symptoms. He enjoys talking to people with an aim to support his clients in their goal to achieve a better life experience.