For many people, the winter season can be a time of joy and celebration. For others, fewer daylight hours and the demands of the holidays can leave them feeling deeply tired, lonely, overwhelmed, or irritable. This year, those feelings may be compounded by other stressors such as the impacts of the pandemic, local weather events, and travel limitations. As health care providers, it can be tempting to ‘push down’ these feelings so that we can get on with providing services for our clients.
At the College, we recognize these are extraordinary times and that people may be struggling. We encourage you to take some time to reflect on how you are doing this year and think about ways to proactively take care of yourself.
For some, this may include focusing on getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet, engaging in mindfulness or relaxation practices, getting some exercise, or seeking out safe social activities.
For others, this may also mean reaching out for help and advice – whether from your medical practitioner, employment assistance program, or other trusted source.
If you notice a colleague seeming not quite like themselves this season, please check in with them. By taking care of yourself and supporting your colleagues to do the same, you are taking important steps to meet your professional obligations to be able to provide good care for others.
The College’s Practice Team is also available as a resource and can be reached at practice@cotbc.org.
We wish you good health!
