In this third wave of COVID-19 it feels like we have not had a chance to recover and literally catch professional or personal breath since the pandemic began.
Universally, health systems, hospitals, critical care units and residential care homes are under immense pressure. It is widely reported by experienced and long-serving staff that these are experiences never seen before over long careers. Staff are the most valuable resource in any healthcare setting. We hear much about equipment, resources and structures, but this pandemic has taught us that our staff are our greatest resource. And our greatest resource needs resourcing and that is why the other thing such as equipment, resources, PPE etc are so very important.
But what about you?
How do you care for yourself amidst these challenges? Do you have a supportive team around you? Do you feel valued in your work? Are your personal ‘orange lights’ flashing a warning signal? What helps you to bend and not to break?
In these challenging days, reach out for support, be compassionate with yourself and your colleagues, eat well, get the sleep you need, nurture your home relationships, try to find time for even modest recreation and whatever brings you joy.
Take time to share your experiences in a trusted and safe place (such as through professional supervision -in person or online) and in doing so you will hopefully gain new clarity, be encouraged and supported in whatever your role is. To bend rather than to break.
Clinical Pastoral Supervision & Education 