Tips for Physicians Thinking of Taking a Leave from Work

A short time ago I did an interview with Doctors of BC on approaches that physicians might take when considering a leave from work. As physicians we learn early on to ignore our own needs in favour of treating patients, as if it is an either/or. In medical school and residency I recall bragging about how I was able to forego eating, drinking, sleeping and a host of other necessary body functions. We competed. Who had experienced the worst night on call? How many hours could I not sleep and still function? Looking back, I realize the competition was a way of building community and getting by, of accepting a crazy time of our lives, of learning to give more than we had every day. To do so was to enter the culture of medicine as a card-carrying member. Fast forward time. I train and certify as a professional coach. Well-being becomes a thing. Meditation. Mindfulness. Yoga. Take time for yourself. As doctors we are supposed to fill in for the numerous gaps in the healthcare system and make sure that we take care of ourselves. Every day that I work for the physician health program or coach physicians I see younger doctors struggling with similar issues: of having lost a part of themselves, of having disconnected, of no longer knowing what they need and want, of trying to do just a little bit more when the tank is empty. Thriving in the practice of medicine, requires that we take care of ourselves and others, that we stop backburnering our own needs and start prioritizing them. Longevity in practice demands this. https://www.doctorsofbc.ca/business-corner/temporary-leave-medical-practice-insights-tips-dr-mayhew