Nurturing well-being: Preventing burnout

In the pursuit of creating compassionate workplaces, let’s remember to extend that compassion to ourselves.

 CREDIT: This is an edited version of an article that originally appeared on Practice Index

In England, the Quality and Outcomes Framework (QOF) Quality Improvement (QI) modules for this year have their sights set on well-being and our teams. It’s a call to action for practices to introduce processes that foster resilience and create a compassionate and supportive work environment. The long-term goal? To combat burnout.

Recognising progress

Many practices across the nation are already doing remarkable things to support their teams. From weekly fruit boxes to regular social events and online resources dedicated to staff well-being, there’s no shortage of evidence that a compassionate culture is thriving in many corners. These initiatives reflect a growing commitment to maintaining a harmonious workplace.

However, as we dedicate ourselves to looking after our teams, we must pause and ask, “Who’s looking out for us?” Do we have an outlet for our own struggles? It’s a question worth asking.

Ceri Gardener, reflecting on her journey within the realm of general practice, shares her insights into mental health:

“I greatly value the opportunity to talk. My GP partners are very open and supportive, and I have an amazing friend and colleague whom I can lean on whenever I need. There are local PM/PCN/LMC colleagues who will happily listen to me having a rant and a moan in confidence – just as I do for them. The IGPM consists of a diverse group of like-minded professionals who are also there to offer guidance. I’ve bent a few of those ears and cried on their shoulders too!”

But it wasn’t always this way. A while back, Ceri’s own mental health had taken a significant hit, pushing her towards burnout.

The expectation trap

In her darkest moments, she struggled with what she believed was normal behaviour, failing to recognise that it wasn’t. She placed exceedingly high expectations on herself and allowed others to do the same. The fear of failure was crippling, making it impossible for her to say no, as she was afraid it might be seen as weakness or disappointment.

When Ceri found the courage to say, “I can’t do this anymore.” She reached out to her GP, who issued her a Med3 after reading her heartfelt eConsult.

She had to halt, hit the reset button, and embark on a journey of recovery. During her time out, Ceri contemplated, focusing on her needs and how she could rebuild herself. Her answer led her to the world of jewellery-making. Professionally, she made changes too. A new practice, shared responsibilities, and a firm commitment to leaving work at the workplace. Ceri wishes she had known back then what she knows now: it’s okay to say no, close the office door, and take a step back to breathe.

A message for all Practice Managers

Practice Managers are an extraordinary bunch – versatile, tenacious, diligent, and relentlessly hardworking. But above all else, they need to take care of themselves. If you find yourself identifying with Ceri’s experiences, know that you’re not alone. Reach out; it’s a universal human right.