Occupational therapy is a profession defined by compassion and dedication, helping individuals lead meaningful lives. However, as rewarding as the field is, it comes with its fair share of challenges. For Samantha Shannahan, an experienced occupational therapist, two areas stand out as particularly demanding: managing grief and emotional exhaustion.
This article explores Samantha’s personal experiences in aged care and offers insights into how therapists can address these challenges while maintaining their passion for the profession.
Facing the Reality of Grief in Aged Care
For many occupational therapists working in aged care, encountering death and terminal illness is inevitable. Samantha didn’t fully grasp the emotional toll this would take until she experienced it firsthand.
Prior to her work in aged care, Samantha was a Return to Work Consultant, a role where death and grief were largely absent. When she transitioned to aged care, she knew that working closely with elderly residents would involve losses. Still, nothing could have fully prepared her for the emotional impact of these experiences.
Building Bonds That Matter
“The first few weeks were fine because I hadn’t formed strong relationships yet,” Samantha recalls. But as time passed and connections deepened with residents, their passing became harder to process.
One resident, Norm, had a particularly profound impact. A kind and respectful gentleman, Norm brightened Samantha’s day each time he came in for treatment. When he passed away, the grief hit harder than she expected. “I remember tearing up in front of his granddaughter,” Samantha shares. That moment, though unplanned and emotional, demonstrated how much Norm had meant to her.
Through this experience, Samantha learned a valuable lesson. “It’s okay to be sad, to cry, or even take a mental health day when needed,” she says. Grieving is not unprofessional; it reflects the strong bonds formed in aged care work.
Managing Grief
Acknowledging grief and learning to cope is vital for occupational therapists. Samantha suggests several strategies to process loss while staying resilient:
- Self-care: Taking time for activities that bring joy and relaxation, such as baking, exercise, or spending time with loved ones.
- Workplace Culture: Building a supportive environment where colleagues can openly share feelings and look out for one another.
- Access to Resources: Encouraging therapists to use Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) or other professional counselling services during tough times.
Creating a culture that normalises grief can reduce burnout and foster stronger support systems within the workplace.
Emotional Exhaustion in Occupational Therapy
Occupational therapists are naturally giving individuals, often putting the needs of others before their own. While this helps them excel in their roles, it can lead to emotional exhaustion, especially in challenging times such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Weight of Responsibility
Samantha points out that therapists have taken on expanded roles during the pandemic. Beyond treatment, they also provide social interaction, emotional support, and reassurance to residents who may feel isolated. “We put on our happy faces even when we’re unsure ourselves,” she says. “It’s exhausting.”
This level of emotional involvement can quickly drain even the most seasoned professionals. That’s why Samantha emphasises the importance of focusing on personal well-being.
Self-Care Strategies
Finding balance is crucial, and Samantha suggests some practical ways to recharge outside of work:
- Alone Time: Carving out moments for quiet reflection.
- Hobbies: Engaging in enjoyable activities like cooking, baking, or taking a walk outdoors.
- Mindfulness: Practising mindfulness or journaling to focus on the present and process emotions.
- Support Networks: Staying connected through phone or video calls with family and friends.
- Rest: Listening to your body and prioritising sleep when needed.
“It’s about asking yourself, ‘What matters to me?’ and making sure those needs are met,” she says.
Creating a Healthy Work-Life Balance
Samantha may not have perfected her self-care routine, but she’s learned to be kinder to herself. “Occupational therapists focus on helping others find balance,” she says. “But sometimes, we need to shift that focus inward.”
A great way to start is by setting boundaries between work and personal life. Once the workday ends, make a conscious decision to prioritise your own well-being.
Tips for Fostering Resilience
Occupational therapy is as rewarding as it is challenging. By prioritising mental health and fostering resilience, therapists can continue making a meaningful impact without compromising their own well-being.
Samantha’s Top Recommendations
- Speak Openly: Normalise discussions about workplace stress and emotions with colleagues.
- Stay Physically Active: Whether it’s a quick walk or yoga session, movement is a proven stress reliever.
- Seek Professional Support: Make use of mental health resources available for healthcare professionals.
- Spread Positive Culture: Support one another in the workplace by keeping an open mind and listening without judgement.
Occupational therapists give so much of themselves to their work. By adopting these strategies, they can ensure their own needs are met, allowing them to thrive personally and professionally.
Final Thoughts
For Samantha, the challenges of being an occupational therapist are balanced by the rewarding moments, the connections with residents, and the knowledge that her work makes a difference. By acknowledging the complexities of the profession and prioritising self-care, occupational therapists can build careers that are not only impactful but also sustainable.
If you’re seeking support or looking for resources to thrive as a healthcare professional, Healthcare Australia is here to help.
Explore Healthcare Australia’s resources today and take the first step towards building your resilience and maintaining balance.
