Hello! I can appreciate from your description that you work long hours and under pressure, that you haven't been feeling well yourself for the past few years, and that you are indeed very tired. You like stability and familiarity, and changes in your environment make you feel uncomfortable. Now that the department has been restructured, your colleagues have changed, your husband will be going on further training in a month's time, and your mother has said that she won't be able to help with the children after two years—it's an exciting time!
Many things are intertwined, which can make you feel a bit helpless. But you've got this! The patient's negative feedback has only increased this pressure and triggered negative emotions in you.
I totally get you!
This is something we can all relate to! We tend to feel more comfortable in situations that are stable, familiar, orderly, and certain. When there are lots of things going on and the environment is changing rapidly, it can feel like there's a lot going on in our minds at once. When our brains feel like things are a bit chaotic, it can make us feel a bit uneasy. But when things are sorted out, prioritized, and we have a clear plan for each thing, our brains will suddenly feel clearer and stress will be greatly reduced! This is the basic working mechanism of the brain, and it's pretty amazing! There are just some individual differences.
Let's dive in and sort out the situation together! We'll explore the two main perspectives of mind and body to find the best ways to deal with it.
1. Let's dive into the fascinating world of psychology!
1. First, let's talk about the overall psychological characteristics. "You can feel that you are afraid of change, want stability, and need people to care for, comfort, and accompany you." Think rationally about it. The state we are in is always constantly changing. Stability is relative, and change is absolute—and change is what makes life exciting!
When changes occur, list what you fear in response to the changes in this factor, and list the three most important ones in your notebook. When I just feel scared, my mind is a mess, and I feel like there are no solutions. But guess what? The moment you list it, your brain will feel clearer, and the pressure will suddenly subside!
Think of solutions for the three directions you listed. You can do this! Believe that there are solutions for most things. Even if you cannot solve them completely at once, you can have a way to move in a favorable direction. When there is a way to implement it, the brain will not be anxious. What you said about needing to be cared for, comforted, and accompanied is probably similar, and it is a manifestation of the brain feeling helpless. Also think about what needs to be cared for and comforted, what triggered it, and how to solve it. You can do this!
Two or three patients said that the treatment was not effective, and you subconsciously interpreted it as being negative. This led to a doubt about the value of your profession. But think about it! Five patients had treatment effects. This is the value of the doctor!
Many people have the habit of drawing a black circle on a blank piece of paper and asking people to say what they see. Many people will say they see a black circle and ignore the many blank spaces on the paper. I don't know what department you are in, but most diseases have a treatment process. Even if the treatment plan is correct, individual differences are still very large. You should be more professional in this regard — it's an exciting field to be in!
If the treatment effect is particularly poor, your department has a great opportunity to implement a new mechanism for multiple doctors to jointly sort through the test data, sort through the original treatment plan, and determine a new plan. The consulting industry has such a mechanism, and it's a fantastic model to follow. In any case, if there is indeed a significant lack of effect, you can try a consultation, which is always a great way to get new insights and ideas.
3. Departmental adjustments and changes in colleagues. You know, those familiar colleagues were never really familiar in the first place. But you know what? You can make them familiar! All you have to do is give yourself a few more hints. And you can find out what specific changes will be brought about by the changes in colleagues, for example, work habits, and communicate with your new colleagues to reach a consensus. If you are just unfamiliar with the person, then find a way to chat about family matters, children, etc.! You'll become familiar with them after a while.
4. In July, my husband went away for further studies, so I had the chance to sort out the family matters. I made a list of the important things that needed to be done before he left, and a list of my daily plans after he left. I just wrote them down in a notebook, and it felt great to have everything in one place! I also made a promise with my husband to send messages and make phone calls regularly, which I'm really excited about.
5. You've still got two whole years to make things work! There's always a way out. If it's not an emergency, just tell yourself that you'll find a solution in two years. Think about it: could any relatives help out for a fee? Are there any child care centers, small dining rooms, etc., where the child can meet other children and improve his social skills?
And so on!
Second, let's dive into the physical aspects!
You mentioned that "over the years, my body has had various problems," and that "especially recently, I have been experiencing dizziness. I thought it had gone away, but today I feel like it's getting worse. I can feel it myself: my dizziness is related to fatigue and my emotions." This is a great opportunity for you to think carefully about whether your physical condition is compatible with your work pressure, and what the relationship is between fatigue and emotions. You can develop a comprehensive physical conditioning plan, including medication, physiotherapy, exercise, etc., to make sure you're in the best shape possible!
Also, be sure to clearly define the plan and stick to it!
In addition, I think it would be a great idea for you to consider some other options. Have you ever thought about looking into second-line jobs in the hospital that are relatively relaxed and stable? You may earn less, but it's a fantastic opportunity for you to take care of your health and spend more time with your family and children. Have you ever thought about being transferred to a community hospital, where most of the work involves prescribing medicine and the like, and there are fewer patients to see? This way, you will also have less work pressure and be closer to home.
Oh, and here's another thing. This idea is actually about one party in the family sacrificing some of their career and taking care of the family more.
Your family is your home base, and it is actually very important!
Now for the really cool part! Emotions have energy and can accumulate. But here's the good news: you can take control of your emotions and avoid any long-term accumulation of negative emotions that cannot be resolved. And guess what? It'll even help you out with your body! The above suggestions on psychological aspects can help resolve emotions. At the same time, you can consciously perceive your emotions, feel when they are coming, take a deep breath to calm yourself down, use your conscious mind to think about what is going on, how you can solve it, and even if you cannot solve it, what the worst possible outcome is and whether you can accept it. This can prevent emotions from accumulating and fermenting.
Also, find some entertainment and relaxation methods that suit you, such as running, listening to music, getting a massage, etc. Once you find a suitable method, it's time to make it part of your daily routine! Do it every week or every day.
That's all! I really hope it helps!
Wishing you the very best!
Comments
I understand how you're feeling, and it's completely normal to be affected by negative feedback. It's important to acknowledge your feelings and give yourself permission to feel down for a bit. However, try to focus on the positive aspects of your work. Remember the patients who did respond well to treatment and the difference you make in their lives. Maybe take some time to write down a few things you're grateful for each day. Also, consider setting aside a specific time for relaxation or a hobby that brings you joy. It could be reading, meditating, or even just taking a walk. Sometimes stepping away from everything for a short while can help reset your mood.
It sounds like you've been carrying a lot on your shoulders lately. Feeling undervalued at work and dealing with personal health issues can be incredibly tough. Have you considered speaking with a mentor or a trusted colleague about the challenges you're facing? They might offer some valuable advice or simply provide an empathetic ear. Additionally, if your dizziness is getting worse, it might be beneficial to consult a healthcare professional. Taking care of your physical health can also have a positive impact on your mental state. And remember, it's okay to ask for help when you need it; you don't have to go through this alone.
Feeling overwhelmed is understandable given all the changes happening around you. It seems like stability and support are crucial for you, and it's okay to want those things. Perhaps you could talk openly with your husband about how you're feeling and what you need from him during this time. Communication can bridge the gap between expectations and reality. In terms of your colleagues, try to see this as an opportunity to build new relationships. While it may not replace the comfort of old ones, it could lead to unexpected friendships. Lastly, consider joining a support group or seeking professional counseling. Sometimes talking to someone outside your immediate circle can provide fresh perspectives and coping strategies.