Abstract

KIRBY, Janine M.; MILLIGAN, Peter D.; CONRADIE, Hofmeyr H.  and  MCINTOSH, Belinda M.. A mindful approach to physician self-care. SAFP [online]. 2024, vol.66, n.1, pp.1-4. ISSN 2078-6204.  http://dx.doi.org/10.4102/safp.v66i1.5836.

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.

Keywords : self-care; burnout; systems failure; presence; perspective; self-compassion.

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