Tips to help a friend destress
Today, I finished my medical ethics rotation and we did a small bit on self-care and offering assistance to our fellow residents if they ever feel overwhelmed/stressed. We were paired up and we each shared what we have learned. I thought I’d share here my transcript with my colleague. They said it was very helpful so here you go! Let’s help each other have better days!
“That can definitely be a factor. Of course, you feel that way. “
PERMISSION TO DISCUSS FURTHER:
“Can I offer some words of advice?”
“I know you're feeling overwhelmed. It's not easy. You're currently juggling two big things (or insert what you need to here) that take up a majority of your time and I know that can be frustrating and make you want to quit/walk away.”
“There are ways of walking away without abandoning. And there is nothing wrong with doing that! And remember that this won't last forever, your situation will improve.”
“This might sound silly but maybe it's time to change your schedule. Something doesn’t seem to be working so maybe consider reshaping it so that it doesn't drag down your mental state with it.
“Maybe try getting in bed half an hour earlier and ten minutes before that, try some breathing exercises. Or meditation or both! You can always call me and we can breathe together! I promise it won’t be weird!”
(Using humor always helps)
LET THEM KNOW YOU’RE THERE
“I'm glad you feel comfortable venting to me. Let me be here for you in one way or another. It helps to know you're not alone because, with me, you never will be! “