Stress-Busting Tips for the Busy Holiday and Flu SeasonLaura Kleffner

Working in healthcare comes with its own set of challenges, and stress tends to peak during the holiday and flu seasons. While this stress is often unavoidable, there are several techniques you can use to reduce its impact and stay mentally and physically healthy during this busy time. Below are some practical stress-busting tips to help you survive the season.

Be Proactive

We all know the holiday and flu seasons can bring unwelcome stress, both in and outside the clinic. Being proactive is key to managing these challenges. Start by identifying your stress triggers early, whether they stem from your workload, family obligations, or last-minute holiday errands.

Tips:

• Create a schedule ahead of time for tasks like shopping and travel, so you're not scrambling at the last minute.
• For interpersonal stress, set healthy boundaries with family or coworkers to help diffuse potential tensions.
• By addressing these problem areas early, you can greatly reduce your holiday stress and improve your ability to cope.

Schedule Some Down Time

A hectic clinic schedule can take its toll, increasing stress and burnout. Combat this by scheduling timed breaks throughout the day. Use this time to decompress with unrelated activities that help you recharge, such as playing a quick game on your phone or listening to calming music.

Tips:

• Set reminders for breaks so you don’t skip them, even on busy days.
• Engage in quick relaxation techniques like stretching, deep breathing, or listening to your favorite podcast.

Get Some Exercise

Exercise is a powerful tool for stress relief, especially during the holiday season when you’re likely indulging in more treats. Even if you're exhausted after a long workday, getting some physical activity can help improve your mood and energy levels.

Tips:

• If you can’t find time after work, try morning exercise to start your day with a burst of energy.
• Squeeze in interval exercises throughout the day, such as stair runs, wall sits, or even desk-friendly chair dips.

Exercise not only boosts your mental health but also helps manage any extra holiday calories!

Focus on Healthy Eating

This season is filled with tempting treats at office parties and family gatherings, making it easy to indulge. While it's okay to enjoy holiday goodies, set healthy limits to avoid the discomfort of overindulgence.

Tips:

• Plan ahead by eating a healthy meal before attending gatherings, or bring your own nutritious dish to ensure you have a healthy option.
• In the clinic, avoid skipping meals, no matter how busy your shift gets. Scheduling time for a nutritious lunch can boost both your energy and mood for the rest of the day.

Try Some Meditation

Meditation and mindfulness can help decompress your mind during stressful moments, and the best part is you can practice them anywhere—even at work. These techniques have been shown to improve mood, reduce anxiety, and combat fatigue.

Tips:

• Start by practicing meditation for a few minutes each day, gradually increasing your practice over time.
• Use mindfulness apps or guided meditation videos to make the practice easier and more accessible.

The holiday and flu seasons are notoriously busy and stressful, especially for healthcare workers. By proactively managing stress through techniques like exercise, healthy eating, and meditation, you can better navigate the challenges of the season while staying healthy and energized.

Laura Kleffner is the VP of Marketing Operations at PracticeMatch.

She has been with PracticeMatch since 2014. Laura is responsible for the PracticeMatch marketing strategy to reach physicians as well as healthcare organizations with a need for physician recruitment resources.