Even the best physical therapists can feel stressed and exhausted at times. But, physical therapists who know how to combat these issues are well-equipped to avoid burnout.
Physical therapists who feel burned out cannot give their best. The result: these therapists and their patients will suffer the consequences.
However, physical therapists who can identify the warning signs of burnout can identify the issue in its early stages. They can also take steps to avoid burnout altogether.
Tips to Avoid Burnout As a Physical Therapist
Here are five things that physical therapists can do to avoid burnout.
1. Identify Your Stressors
Figure out what makes you feel stressed and exhausted in the first place. Once you identify your stressors, you can determine healthy ways to minimize their impact.
For instance, it is easy to become stressed as you deal with a challenging patient. In this scenario, you may want to take a few deep breaths. This can help you calm down and focus on what’s most important: providing your patient with the best care possible.
2. Take Care of Your Health
Much in the way you help a patient take care of their health, you need to take care of your health, too. Otherwise, if physical or mental health problems linger for an extended period of time, they can contribute to burnout.
Give time to yourself every day. This ensures you can step back from your physical therapy work and focus on yourself.
Also, don’t forget to exercise regularly and maintain a healthy diet. That way, you can put yourself in a great position to feel your best every day.
3. Separate Your Work and Personal Lives
When you finish your physical therapy shift, leave any concerns or questions at work. Failure to do so can cause your work concerns and questions to negatively impact your personal life.
Generally, it helps to accept that you are doing everything in your power to assist patients during your work shifts. So, when you are at work, you can focus on helping your patients. And when you are at home, you can focus on taking care of yourself.
4. Ask for Help
There is no reason to feel embarrassed or ashamed about asking for help. In fact, requesting assistance from other medical professionals can help you get the support you need to feel your best at work and at home.
It can be beneficial to meet with a doctor or mental health professional if you feel overly stressed or exhausted. At this time, you can undergo an assessment and work with a medical professional to determine the best course of action to address your symptoms.
Take Steps to Combat Burnout As a Physical Therapist
Don’t let burnout get the best of you. Instead, use the tips mentioned above to guard against this problem now and in the future.
Lastly, if you are interested in pursuing physical therapy jobs in North Carolina, South Carolina, or Georgia, Accurate Staffing can help. Our healthcare division can connect you with organizations in search of exceptional physical therapists. To learn more, please contact us today.