A mindful approach to physician self-care

There has been an increasing awareness of the importance of physician mental health. Several South African studies show a high prevalence of burnout among doctors. Burnout is characterised by three components: exhaustion, depersonalisation, and a sense of a lack of efficacy. Burnout is a result of b...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Janine M. Kirby, Peter D. Milligan, Hofmeyr H. Conradie, Belinda M. McIntosh
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: AOSIS 2024-01-01
Series:South African Family Practice
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Online Access:https://safpj.co.za/index.php/safpj/article/view/5836
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Summary:There has been an increasing awareness of the importance of physician mental health. Several South African studies show a high prevalence of burnout among doctors. Burnout is characterised by three components: exhaustion, depersonalisation, and a sense of a lack of efficacy. Burnout is a result of both external and internal pressures. While lifestyle modification is essential, mindfulness-informed programmes promote self-regulation and resilience. Mindfulness programmes comprise three components: present moment awareness, perspective-taking and wisdom, and compassion. Physician wellness begins with individuals recognising the need of self-care and giving themselves permission to prioritise this. Ongoing identification of self-care needs and acting compassionately to address these needs is essential.
ISSN:2078-6190
2078-6204