Overcoming EMS Burnout

Yeah, It’s been a ride… I guess I had to go to that place to get to this one. Now some of you might still be in that place. If you’re trying to get out, just follow me. I’ll get you there. Rapper Eminem, I’m Not Afraid, Recovery I’ve been there. Sure, I’d like to say that I was always a positive, proactive and optimistic EMS employee but that isn’t the case. I’ve been through periods of burnout. More than once to tell you the truth. I know what it’s like to dread getting up in the morning and going to work. I also know what it’s like to feel like you aren’t valued by your employer. I’ve been through phases where I just didn’t care about the service that I worked for or the quality of the care that I provided. If they don’t care, why should I…right? I know what it feels like to be a cog in the machine, replaceable and unimportant. I’ve been to those places and I’ve come back. I’ve come back stronger than I was before. If you’re in that place right now, first let me say a heartfelt, “I’m sorry.” I know where you’re at. I’ve felt the disillusionment and frustration. Hang in there. EMS still needs you. You still have something meaningful to contribute. Now let me give you a few ideas for how you might get back to where you need to me. 1) Stop working overtime shifts (Refuse if necessary) One of the unfortunate side affects of burnout is that it often comes coupled with a belief that the solution lies in wor...
Source: The EMT Spot - Category: Emergency Medicine Authors: Tags: EMT Source Type: blogs