Why are clinicians expected to work 24-hour shifts and 80+ hour work weeks? How are we supposed to survive (let alone thrive) while experiencing chronic sleep deprivation?
My guest this week, Dr. Laura Vater, is a TEDx speaker, writer, practicing oncologist, and advocate for change in the healthcare system. Join us for an open, honest conversation about how to navigate a system that violates your values on a daily basis.
You’ll learn:
- The sordid origin story of residency training in the United States
- Why chronic sleep deprivation is destroying our mental health and creating a crisis of burnout
- Dr. Laura Vaters’s “writing for wellness” initiative and the therapeutic power of journaling and expressive writing for burnout recovery.
This is such a beautiful conversation and I cannot wait for you to listen in.
Use the audio player above to listen, or tune in on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.
Navigating Burnout and Finding Passion
We dive deep into the world of healthcare, burnout, and finding passion in the midst of it all. In this episode, renowned physician Dr. Laura Vater shared valuable insights on navigating burnout and finding passion in the healthcare industry. Driven by her own experiences and a desire to make a difference, she has become an advocate for mental health and wellness among medical professionals.
Dealing with Overwhelming Workload
Dr. Vater acknowledges the demanding nature of her work, often juggling clinic days and hospital services. She emphasizes the importance of finding balance and prioritizing self-care. While the healthcare industry can be overwhelming, she advises focusing on the things within our control and being kind and compassionate to ourselves and our patients.
The Power of Therapeutic Writing
Writing has been a transformative tool for Dr. Vater in processing her emotions and coping with the challenges she faces. She started journaling during her medical training and found it to be a powerful outlet for grief and stress. Dr. Vater now leads a program called Writing for Wellness, providing clinicians with a safe space to unburden and develop their writing skills.
Pursuing Passions Beyond Medicine
Dr. Vater’s love for writing has evolved into a significant part of her life. She has completed a novel and is in the process of publishing it. Writing allows her to explore themes of humanism, medicine, and mental health, and she sees it as a powerful way to advocate for change. Dr. Vater encourages clinicians to pursue their passions outside of medicine, emphasizing the importance of having personal strategies for resilience and self-care.
Recognizing Options and Seeking Support
Feeling unfulfilled and burnt out is not uncommon among healthcare professionals. Dr. Vater reminds us that this is just a single moment in time and that we have options. It may involve stepping away temporarily, cutting back on workloads, or exploring new career paths. Seeking support through therapy and finding outlets for self-reflection, such as writing, can also be instrumental in navigating these challenges.
Making a Difference and Fighting for Change
Despite the obstacles and frustrations within the healthcare system, Dr. Vater remains committed to making a difference. She believes in the power of storytelling to bring about change and advocates for improvements in patient care. Driven by her passion for humanism and mental health, she aims to continue writing and educating others about the importance of holistic healthcare.
In conclusion, Dr. Laura Vater’s journey serves as an inspiration to healthcare professionals facing burnout and seeking fulfillment. By embracing therapeutic writing, pursuing passions outside of medicine, recognizing available options, and advocating for change, it is possible to navigate the challenges of the healthcare industry and find personal and professional fulfillment.
