Dear Physician Assistants,

As healthcare professionals, we all know that the work we do can be demanding and stressful at times. Burnout is a real risk in medicine, and it can have serious consequences for our well-being and the care we provide to our patients. That’s why it’s essential to take proactive steps to prevent burnout and maintain our passion for medicine.

To help you remember the key points of burnout prevention, we’ve created a simple mnemonic: CARES. Each letter stands for an essential aspect of maintaining balance and well-being in our professional lives.

C – Connect with others: It’s important to build and maintain strong relationships with colleagues, friends, and family. Don’t isolate yourself; instead, seek out support and connection in both your personal and professional life.

A – Assess your workload: Be mindful of how much you’re taking on and the impact it’s having on your well-being. Don’t be afraid to say no to additional responsibilities if they’re pushing you beyond your limits.

R – Recharge your batteries: Taking time to rest and recharge is essential to prevent burnout. Make sure you’re getting enough sleep, exercise, and self-care time to help you feel energized and focused.

E – Establish boundaries: Setting boundaries around work hours and personal time can help prevent burnout and allow you to recharge. Communicate your needs clearly to colleagues and supervisors, and don’t feel guilty about prioritizing your well-being.

S – Seek support: If you’re feeling overwhelmed or experiencing symptoms of burnout, don’t hesitate to seek help. Reach out to a trusted colleague, mentor, or mental health professional for support and guidance.

Remember, taking care of yourself is essential to providing high-quality care to your patients. By prioritizing your well-being, you’ll be better equipped to handle the challenges of medicine and maintain your passion for your work.

Stay well and take care,

John Bielinski, MS PAC