Jun 08, 2023

Nurturing Mental Health and Wellbeing as a Healthcare Traveler

As a healthcare traveler, your job can be exciting and fulfilling. However, the nature of working in a healthcare profession brings challenges that may impact your mind, body and spirit more than other careers. It’s crucial to prioritize your self-care and find strategies to nurture your mental health and wellbeing as a healthcare traveler. Here are some practices to help you take care of yourself while embracing the adventures of working as a travel healthcare professional.

Establish a Support Network

One of the essential aspects of maintaining mental health and wellbeing as a healthcare traveler is establishing a strong support network. Although it may be more difficult to create strong relationships with colleagues while traveling, it’s worth the extra effort to build a support system that understands the unique challenges you face as a healthcare professional. The internet can make it easier to connect with fellow travelers by joining online communities and Facebook groups, like The Gypsy Nurse Network or Allied Travel Network, to engage with other healthcare professionals who understand your unique situation. Dontclockout.org is a wonderful resource that offers free weekly support groups to discuss mental health and the professional challenges you face with other healthcare professionals.

Prioritize Your Own Self-Care

Self-care is vital for nurturing your overall wellbeing. Despite busy schedules and demanding work environments, try to carve out time for activities that rejuvenate and relax you. Read books for fun, try a new exercise class, visit the nail salon or spend time doing your favorite hobby. Always try to prioritize sleep and maintain a healthy diet, as these factors significantly influence your mental and physical health. Balancing work and leisure activities can also help you avoid burnout and boost your mental fitness.

Remember Your Own Healthcare

As a traveling healthcare worker, it’s easy to let your own health take a backseat among your priorities. Remember to schedule any primary or specialist visits that you need during your time off. You can’t take care of your patients without taking care of your own health first.

Manage Stress Effectively

Working in healthcare can be demanding and stressful. It is important to develop healthy coping mechanisms to manage stress effectively. Some ideas include practicing deep breathing exercises, engaging in regular physical activity, yoga, journaling or your favorite creative outlet. Find what works best for you and incorporate stress management practices into your daily routine.

Stay Connected with Loved Ones

Maintaining connections with family and friends is crucial for your mental health as a travel healthcare professional. Use technology to stay connected through video calls, text messages, and social media. Not only is staying in communication with loved ones important for your safety but it provides a sense of belonging and support, and reduces feelings of isolation or homesickness.

Seek Professional Help if Needed

If you find yourself struggling with your mental health, do not hesitate to seek professional help. Therapy Aid Coalition offers free and low-cost therapy options for all frontline and healthcare workers in the United States. The Physician Support Line is a group of volunteer psychiatrists that provide emotional support to physicians over the phone at (888) 409-0141. Reach out to these resources if you need support. Mental health professionals can provide guidance, coping strategies, and a safe space to discuss any concerns or challenges you may be facing.

Taking care of your mental health and wellbeing as a travel healthcare professional is vital for your overall satisfaction and success in your profession. Always remember, your wellbeing matters.

If you’re ready to find your next travel healthcare position, Aequor’s dedicated recruiters are ready to help! Utilize Aequor’s self-service portal to browse jobs and get connected with a recruiter who cares just as much about your wellbeing as they do about helping you find your perfect travel assignment.

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