Episode 256
GP Wellbeing and Addressing Burnout
In this episode, Dr Ramya Raman speaks with Dr Shaun Prentice, psychologist and Research Officer, about GP wellbeing and burnout, and Dr Vanessa Matabang, RACGP WA Core Education Head of Training and Wellbeing Champion.
Defining burnout as a chronic reaction to ongoing stress, distinct from ordinary tiredness or transient stress. Dr Shaun outlines typical features of burnout, including emotional exhaustion, decreased empathy, job dissatisfaction, and reduced performance.
Dr Vanessa discusses the unique emotional and administrative demands of general practice, emphasising the ongoing cognitive and relational load GPs carry. They highlight that general practice is both deeply rewarding and uniquely challenging due to patient continuity, time pressures, and external expectations.
Key transition difficulties for registrars, such as professional isolation and adapting to new clinical responsibilities, are addressed. The importance of practice culture and creating a safe, supportive learning environment is emphasised as crucial for wellbeing.
Discussing strategies like the idea of "micro recovery", taking regular, small breaks and checking in with colleagues; alongside broader workplace and system-level supports. Underscoring the need for GPs to reconnect with their sense of purpose and to seek connection and mentoring to prevent burnout.
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