Although COVID-19 cases are dropping in the country and advances in technology are making regular patient consultations possible, many local healthcare professionals still find working under pandemic conditions overwhelming. |
Teleconsultations that last until late evening and being away from loved ones for extended periods are just some of the issues that continue to drain them to this point.
The webinar has provided healthcare professionals a way to identify and manage symptoms of burnout and achieve that balance of taking care of their patients and their well-being.
"Going through stressful life experiences can be unhealthy because this could lead to mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression, which we have commonly seen since the pandemic started," webinar speaker Dr. Robert Buenaventura said.
"If you show symptoms of burnout, it's a good idea to see a mental health professional. You have to realize that help is available."
Kumusta Dok is an initiative that aims to empower patients to reconnect with their doctors during the new normal. The Kumusta Dok initiative also gives tips and updates on the channels available for patients to strengthen partnerships with doctors throughout the health-seeking journey. It shares efforts being made by healthcare facilities to ensure safety of patients and healthcare staff while delivering appropriate care. It likewise partners with medical societies to create educational and wellness platforms for healthcare professionals as we live through this pandemic.
Based on a study conducted during the height of the pandemic, out of 516 healthcare workers[1]in the Philippines, 70.7% have anxiety symptoms. The study revealed that the pandemic had a psychological impact on the majority of healthcare workers.
According to Dr. Buenaventura, red flags to watch out for indicating too much stress or a mental health condition include a change in moods, memory, and behavior, as well as lower productivity and frequent absenteeism. Those who suffer mental burnout also have a tendency to withdraw from social connections and ignore personal self-care and hygiene.
To manage these symptoms and get a proper diagnosis or treatment plan, Dr. Buenaventura suggests seeking the help of a mental health professional who can be reached via teleconsultation or in-person visits. Another way to contact a mental health professional or a trained counselor is via anonymous, 24/7 hotlines.
"Consultations don't necessarily have to be about a mental disorder,” Dr. Buenaventura added. "It can just be about the stress that can be managed by other means. But you need to identify and accept that the problem exists because that is the first step to doing something about it."
They can also try other therapeutic maneuvers such as meditation or mindfulness, correcting negative thoughts, or progressive muscle relaxation.
Self-care is very crucial because it's an integral part of professional fulfillment," Dr. Buenaventura said.
If you’re a healthcare worker and showing symptoms of anxiety and burnout, take the necessary steps to get help. Consider taking a break or talking to a trusted friend or a professional.
[1] Marzo, Roy Rillera et al. Risk perception, mental health impacts and coping strategies during COVID-19 pandemic among Filipino healthcare workers. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34911287/
Wow this is great . Tlga nman npka ganda ng ganitong webinar na KAMUSTA DOC . lalo na sa panahon nga ngayon na pandemic ito ung need natin , lalo na sa mga health workers natin ❤️ thank you for sharing ๐❤️
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing po very informative ganda nitong "kumusta
ReplyDeleteDoc" and agree po dahil sa pandemic ang dami nakaka experience ng mental disorder or anxiety. Kaya mahalaga na meron tayo idea kung saan pwede msg pa consult.
Thank you for sharing this ๐ at very informative pa!
ReplyDeleteVery informative and helpful to us❤️Thanks for this๐Stay safe everyone!
ReplyDeleteNapakahalaga talaga na macheck natin ang mental health for this time of pandemic
ReplyDelete