Leadership | 07.01.21
Physician Wellness After COVID-19: Steps to Getting Back to Normalcy
by Medical Economics
Physicians can take steps to bring their mental well-being back to normalcy in the wake of the pandemic. Psychologist Steven Cohen recommends that doctors realize that having negative feelings and emotions is normal. He also stresses the need to pay attention to one's emotions and clearly label them. "While it may feel uncomfortable to acknowledge these feelings, push through the discomfort," he suggests, adding that physicians should ask themselves if there is anything else triggering their feelings. In order to regain a sense of calm, physicians should visualize how they want to feel and ask how they can accomplish this by considering alternate explanations for their beliefs and then electing to think more positively. Cohen also advocates for daily mindfulness meditation. Finally, reaching out to friends, family, colleagues, or a primary care physician or psychologist can go a long way toward recovering normalcy.