DSN ::the DOCTORS' SUPPORT NETWORK::

DSN Guide to Stress and Looking After Yourself

If you just want to read the contents of this leaflet then the text is reproduced below.

Stressed or Distressed?

Mental illness does not discriminate; it affects anyone at any time - doctors too.  Up to 36% of doctors working in NHS trusts have symptoms of minor psychiatric disorder.*  It is all too easy, however, to imagine that "this will never happen to me." It might.

As doctors, we are people with human vulnerabilities; to look after our patients we must first look after ourselves! 

STOP & THINK

¨      Tired all of the time?  This is not a normal part of being a doctor; consider talking things through with a trusted friend or your GP.

¨      Lots of doctors have health needs – admitting you have a problem does not mean the end of your career.

¨      Get proper support and help.  Talk to your GP, accept their judgement even if it means taking time-off. 

¨      You are entitled to help and advice.  Consider medical and social sources.  If you do need a medical opinion do not indulge in “corridor consultations” with colleagues.  Learn to be a patient.

¨      Plan a gradual return to work once you are well. Do not be afraid to consider changing your working pattern.

¨      All of us must implement healthy working practices into our own workplace.

The onset of mental illness can be insidious and subtle – what starts as feeling fed up and then becomes persistent, might ultimately become depressed. If you or those around you are concerned, or if you never seem to feel better, you must seek a professional opinion.
 

Making changes!

·                  Register with a GP.  Never self prescribe; it is almost impossible to be truly objective about your own health.

·                  Look after yourself.  Eat healthily and take regular exercise. Avoid cigarettes and drugs.  Try to ensure a regular good night’s sleep.

·                  Be brave; make work/life balance issues a priority for you!  Put them on your personal development plan; discuss work/life balance at appraisal.

·                  Think of something that you have always wanted to do, if only you could find the time.  If you finished work earlier one night a week, or found a job-share partner could you do it?  Consider all of your working options.

·                  Timetable “talking time” or other time-out into your working week.  Good supportive networks will help you avoid mental ill health.

·                  Think of your own mood, and that of your colleagues.  Do not talk to each other solely about patient care!  Act now if you are at all concerned.