Navigating stress and burnout: Five strategies I employ to sustain well-being in the workplace

As a pediatric and adolescent psychiatrist at Children’s Hospital New Orleans and Tulane University School of Medicine, I play an important role in the emotional well-being and mental health of children. Every day, I witness the transformative power of psychiatric interventions. I guide patients through their difficult struggles and help them build resilience.

The demands of my profession, if not managed carefully, can lead to stress and burnout, which can affect my ability to provide the highest level of care to my patients. The life of a child psychiatrist often entails managing a significant caseload with multiple assessments, consultations, and treatment sessions. The pressure to provide comprehensive care to each child within limited time frames can create a perpetual sense of urgency and stress. Furthermore, working with children and adolescents facing mental health issues exposes me to emotional intensity. Witnessing their emotional pain and vulnerability can evoke empathy, but it can also take an emotional toll, especially when the progress is slow, or setbacks occur.

Recognizing the importance of managing stress and preventing burnout, I have learned to implement effective strategies to nurture my own mental well-being and manage my stress level in the workplace.

Here are five practical strategies that I personally apply to reduce mental stress and burnout which can be useful for working and non-working parents alike:

• Implement work-life integration: I am extremely fortunate to have a job that I genuinely love and appreciate. I value the opportunities my training has given me, and I view my work as an integral part of my life rather than something to be balanced against it. This perspective shift allows me to see work-related tasks outside of typical hours as choices I make because I enjoy them. I practice self-compassion and advocate for systems that support work-life integration.
   
• Advocate for positive changes: Our health care systems, especially here in the U.S. are under significant stress. We need systemic changes to minimize stress and burnout in the workplace. I always take it upon myself to think about the larger systems at play and advocate for positive changes that benefit everyone. It is incredibly rewarding to know that I am doing my part to help move the needle towards creating a better work environment for all.
   
• Foster meaningful relationships: Despite our individual inclinations and the varying levels of interaction required in our work, we are social beings who thrive on connections. I make a conscious effort to get to know my colleagues and cherish those relationships, just as I do with personal friendships that form from being neighbors, schoolmates, or created within social circles. These bonds create a supportive network that plays a vital role in minimizing burnout.
   
• Look for moments of gratitude: As health care providers, we have numerous opportunities to witness the positive impact we make on others’ lives. Despite the systemic challenges we face, it is crucial to acknowledge how we brighten someone’s day, improve their well-being through effective treatment or diagnosis, or simply provide reassurance during their health journey. These moments are privileges, and they are something we can be grateful for. We don’t always have to “win” against illnesses or systemic barriers; being a caring partner to our patients and their families can be enough. It goes a long way to improving our mental health and well-being.
   

• Practice self-compassion: Amid a demanding profession, it is crucial to prioritize self-care and self-compassion. I understand by caring for myself, I am better equipped to care for others. I allow myself moments of rest, reflection, and rejuvenation, knowing that it ultimately benefits both me and my patients. Self-compassion is not only about acknowledging our limitations but also advocating for our own well-being and seeking support when needed.

I hope these tips will assist you in effectively managing the demands of your profession (and other areas of your life) while reducing stress and fostering a workplace that promotes well-being and balance.

To learn more about Mental and Behavioral Services at Children’s Hospital New Orleans, visit:
Mental and Behavioral Health Services | Children's Hospital New Orleans (chnola.org)