In this episode, Mariam sits down with Dr. Zoe Wang and Dr. Iona Morrison, both esteemed general practitioners. Together they delve into the significance of holistic health and well-being in the healthcare profession. They share their personal journeys into medicine, highlighting the importance of understanding patients as whole individuals within their communities. Dr Zoe and Iona discuss the challenges faced by healthcare professionals, the necessity of self-care, and the impact of mindfulness practices. Additionally, they talk about their annual Healing in Healthcare retreat in Wales, designed to foster connection among healthcare workers and promote personal reflection in a nurturing environment. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Both Dr. Zoe Wang and Dr. Iona Morrison emphasize the importance of understanding patients as whole individuals, considering their physical, mental, and social contexts. This holistic perspective is crucial for effective general practice.

• The Healing in Healthcare retreat fosters a sense of community among healthcare professionals, allowing them to share their experiences and vulnerabilities. This connection helps combat feelings of isolation and burnout in the profession.

• Implementing simple, low-cost initiatives like mindfulness sessions and community activities can significantly improve the well-being of healthcare staff. Creating protected time for informal gatherings can enhance team morale and foster a supportive work environment.

• There is a growing recognition of the need for sustainable practices within healthcare. Engaging with local sustainability groups can empower healthcare professionals to contribute to environmental efforts while enhancing their job satisfaction.

• The retreat highlights the therapeutic benefits of nature, encouraging participants to reconnect with the environment. Spending time outdoors can improve mental health and well-being, reinforcing the idea that healthcare extends beyond clinical settings.

BEST MOMENTS

"I guess I naturally ended up with general practice, which has been amazing... it just felt like there was more autonomy to weave in the things that you enjoyed."

"I think I really love life. It's that natural human thing when there's something that you love that you see as suffering, the natural reaction is to want to support that."

"It's about supporting health. It's bringing healing, which maybe can be a bit of a provocative word or what does it mean?"

"The more we can get to know each other as whole people, the more likely the better our workplace environment will be."

"In the listening, often what happens is you realize that everyone else's stories are actually a part of your own."

HOST BIO

Mariam is a GP trainee in Wales passionate about improving our healthcare colleagues' wellbeing. She has experience on the Schwartz Round Steering group and as a facilitator for her health board, and she created and led the Balint Group Programme for Foundation Doctors in her hospital. These are regular spaces for healthcare professionals to speak about real issues that affect their well-being amongst colleagues to improve mutual support and camaraderie in the workplace. She also holds qualifications in Life Coaching and healthcare leadership and management. Whatever your reason for joining us on this podcast, we are glad you have taken the time. 

Dr Melany McKenna is a Clinical Psychologist, Cognitive Analytic Therapy practitioner, and Executive Coach. With a specialist interest in staff wellbeing, and supporting NHS professionals, Dr McKenna offers psychologically informed reflections, prompting us to consider staff wellbeing from a systemic perspective.

If you are having stressful days at work, leaving you feeling demotivated, and depleted, I'm hoping I can help here.

PODCAST DESCRIPTION

SafeSpace is a new grounding and respite podcast aimed at Healthcare Professionals focused on staff wellbeing in the healthcare work environment, a grossly overlooked issue and yet, the cornerstone of the healthcare system which is why it is crumbling. There are 3 components to the podcast:  

- Candid interviews with healthcare leaders, and a wide variety of passionate healthcare professionals about their own experiences and struggles with their well-being as they have progressed through their careers  

- Reflective discussions with a clinical psychologist, my co-host, regarding key topics that have arisen such as coping with bullying, depression, burnout, grief, menopause, etc  

- Guided meditations specific to the healthcare worker getting ready for the day ahead, pausing during, winding down, and accepting following the working day.  

This podcast is not a panacea or substitute for a formal management plan, but a motivating, and catharsis tool to help during a stressful day.

Episode: https://omny.fm/shows/safe-space/healing-in-healthcare-a-journey-towards-holistic-w

Podcast: https://www.saferspace.info