Section 6: Self-Care for the Preceptor

Teaching can be hard!  Taking care of yourself is important so that you can invest time in others.  Be on the lookout for symptoms that may indicate your current mental health status is in need of self-care: 

  • Feeling unhappy about going to work. 
  • Feelings of agitation at work. 
  • A feeling of apathy about your work.
  • Acting less collaborative or friendly/cordial with others. 
  • Starting to view patients as objects or formulas instead of human beings.

Tips for Self-Care

(Adapted from Physician Self-Care: Wellness Tips to Avoid Burnout)

Stay connected.

  1. Strong relationships with family, friends, and colleagues provide a sense of belonging and support.
  2. These connections help remind us of our values and purpose and keep us grounded in life outside of work.
  3. Getting to know coworkers as fellow humans can strengthen workplace relationships.
  4. Finding shared interests with colleagues can make the work environment more enjoyable and fulfilling.

Stay focused.

  1. Remind yourself regularly why you chose to practice optometry.
  2. Reflect on what motivates you to continue in your professional journey.
  3. Consider your levels of professional and personal fulfillment.
  4. Explore ways to improve both areas to maintain long-term satisfaction.

Stay happy with hobbies and activities outside of work.

  1. Cultivate both new and old hobbies.
  2. Make time to travel, garden, laugh with friends, and experience joy.
  3. Prioritize activities that restore your energy and well-being.
  4. Remember that taking time for yourself enables you to give more to others.

Stay healthy.

  1. Nurture your physical, mental, and emotional health whenever possible.
  2. Recognize that inadequate nutrition, hydration, sleep, and exercise can accelerate burnout.
  3. Seek professional help when needed—there is no shame in doing so.
  4. Lean on family, friends, or colleagues for support during challenging times.

Stay organized.

  1. Organize your personal and professional responsibilities to prevent feeling overwhelmed.
  2. Set aside time to list and schedule everything you need and want to do.
  3. Use digital calendars to sync personal and work obligations for easier planning.
  4. Include personal commitments, health needs, and hobbies—such as Little League games, exercise, meals, and downtime.
  5. This practice helps you identify priorities and determine what can be reduced or postponed when necessary.

Don’t be afraid to seek help from administrators and/or professional counselors. 

  1. Talking through your struggles with an objective person can help you begin to process and find a path forward.
  2. Many organizations offer behavioral health resources that employees can access for additional support.

Additional Resources: 

Breaking the Stigma: Mental Health in Optometry Video:

Rodriguez, Tori. Physicians Reveal the Self Care Activities That Help Them Avoid Burnout. 21 May 2024.

American Optometric Association: 4 Self-Care Habts that Help Prevent Burnout 

Healio:‘Please take action’ to avoid optometrist burnout  

Optometric Management: Beat Burnout