While health professionals are dedicated to improving the lives of their patients, the nature of their work can take a toll on their personal lives and relationships. As a partner or family member of a health professional, you may often have to navigate the impact of your loved one’s occupation on their lives as well as your own. It requires ongoing awareness and acceptance of the demands of the role, which can vary both in nature and degree according to stage in career. This is no easy feat.
The demands of a health professional’s job can make it difficult to maintain a healthy work-life balance. They may work long hours, be on-call at all times, and have to deal with the stresses of their job on a daily basis. This can make it challenging for them to be present and attentive to their partners and family members. In addition to the demands of the job, the nature of the healthcare industry can be a highly competitive, goal-orientated and outcomes-focused environment which fuels perfectionistic and self-sacrificing behaviours. Without a healthy work-life balance this can lead to a sense of burnout, which can impact not only the individual, but you as well.
If you area partner or family member of a health professional, you may have experienced some of the following:
- They are always on-duty, leaving you feeling neglected.
- They are studying for yet another exam, causing you to feel left out.
- You feel like you need to book an appointment to see them.
- You feel like you’re raising kids as a single parent.
- You are both burnt out.
- Your partner’s demanding work schedule leaves little time for romantic moments.
- You are running out of compassion and understanding.
- Your work-life juggle feeling is overwhelming and you can’t see a way through.
- You feel constantly on-edge, irritable, and angry. It is getting harder to get out of bed in the morning and get the show-on-the-road.
- You feel less visible, unheard, misunderstood, unimportant, or unappreciated.
- You carry the majority of family responsibilities, household tasks, and decision-making load.
- You secretly feel like your mental health is declining, but you don’t know what to do.
If any of these situations sound familiar, you may be experiencing a level of distress that is unhelpful to your wellbeing and relationship. It’s important to remember that you’re not alone in these struggles. Many partners and family members of health professionals experience similar challenges. The key is to communicate openly and honestly with your partner or family member about how their job is impacting your life. This may involve setting boundaries, carving out time for yourself, or seeking outside support. It is important to prioritise your well-being.
At MINDCHECK Health Professionals we understand the unique challenges you face as a loved one of a health professional. We extend our services to you as well. If you are feeling unsupported, overwhelmed or burnt out, contact us to schedule an appointment with one of our psychologists. There is hope for change.
