Although we celebrate Nurses Week this month, May is also Mental Health Awareness Month. This month is all about raising awareness on the importance of mental health and breaking the stigma behind it. A recent report has found that nearly one in five U.S. adults lives with a mental illness, that is about 52.9 million.
This astounding number includes our healthcare workers. Due to the high demand for these workers, they can develop anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of healthcare workers struggling with mental health issues increased drastically. During this period, 86 percent of healthcare workers reported experiencing anxiety, and 76 percent reported exhaustion and burnout.
As one of the best traveling healthcare companies, RTG Medical wants to share some important tips on how to maintain your mental health while working as a traveling healthcare professional.
Stay connected with friends and family members
One of the perks of being a traveling healthcare professional is having the opportunity to see the country on your own. However, sometimes there can be a downside, spending periods away from your family and friends, which can lead to feelings of isolation.
This is why it is important to stay connected with your friends and family while traveling. Carve out time from your busy schedule to connect with the important people in your life through Facetime, Skype and other forms of digital communication.
Disconnecting from social media
Although social media is a powerful tool for connecting with friends and family members, it can also lead to anxiety and stress. A report has found a strong link between social media use and depression, anxiety and loneliness.
If you are feeling overwhelmed after scrolling through your timeline, consider taking a break from social media or limit your social media consumption. You can limit your social media use by;
- Turning off your phone during certain times of the day
- Not bringing your phone to bed with you
- Removing social media apps
- Using apps that limit your social media use
Make exercising a part of your schedule
Exercise is a great way to help improve your mental health. Staying active can boost your mood, concentration and alertness. Being overly inactive or sedentary can lead to developing mental illnesses like anxiety and depression.
It is so important for healthcare professionals to make time for exercising. You can stay active by using the gym at your workplace facility, apartment or working out outdoors. Consider joining a fitness group if you are looking for a fun yet active way to make friends on your assignment as well.
Work with one of the best traveling healthcare companies!
Be sure to connect with RTG Medical! We help health professionals, like CNAs, nurses, pharmacists, and physical therapists, find travel job opportunities around the country. We have a unique approach in that we pair healthcare professionals with a single recruiter throughout their entire journey. Contact us to learn more.
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