MDNews - Greater Kansas

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ +++ +++ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ PHYSICIAN LIFE BALANCE + + Exhausted by Empathy QUALITY, COMPASSIONATE MEDICAL CARE HAS BECOME A MANTRA FOR PHYSICIANS — ECHOED BY THE KIND, HEARTFELT MOTIVES THAT ARE DISTINCTIVE TO THEIR PRACTICES. F OR SOME MEDICAL professionals, however, there never seems to be an end to the warm hugs, firm handshakes, shed tears and smiling patients — which could leave some physicians on an emotional roller coaster. Could It Be Compassion Fatigue? This form of burnout, called compassion fatigue, occurs when a person becomes overwhelmed by empathetic situations, so much so that it negatively impacts one's livelihood — either emotionally, physically or spiritually. This condition is very real for the up to 8% of physicians and nurses said to have experienced it, according to a 2009 report published in the Journal of the American Medical Association. Compassion fatigue is similar to post- traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), but unlike PTSD, in which a person experi- ences anxiety in the wake of a traumatic event occurring in his or her own life, stress associated with compassion-fatigued individuals is tied to the emotions of another person, such as a patient. Subject to the growing demands of health care and the caring nature of medical professions, physicians seem to be particularly affected by compassion fatigue. This condition may cause affected medical practitioners to avoid situations that involve sympathy and can elicit nega- tive behaviors, such as making impulsive decisions, blaming other coworkers for problems and complaining. Symptoms of compassion fatigue associated with physicians include: + becoming a "workaholic"; + evading those in need; + feeling discouraged; + having exceedingly high sel f- expectations; + lacking sleep; and + experiencing random bouts of anger. Healthful Habits When Feeling Hopeless For physicians experiencing compassion fatigue, overcoming hopelessness starts with creating a shift in their personal outlooks on life instead of altering external factors, such as changing one's job or buying more merchandise. Medical professionals can resolve feelings of despair by incorporating a few practices that foster optimism: + Center yourself — Reflection tech- niques, such as mindfulness meditation and self-centering awareness, can help alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression, as well as promote a greater sense of tranquility and mental balance, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. + Look for leisure — According to the National Center on Physical Activity and Disability, finding time to rest and relax can be advantageous in developing a positive perception of oneself. Incorporate time in your busy schedule to develop a hobby or talent, or participate in a sport you enjoy. + Stay social — A recent Brigham Young University study suggests relationships can have positive psychological and physical impacts on one's quality of life. Converse with friends, relatives and mentors, using the opportunity to express your feelings or ask for help, while relieving stress and building a more positive outlook on life. ■ MDNEWS.COM ■ MD NEWS Greater Kansas | 17

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