Five Things this emergency doctor wants her colleagues in the NHS to know right now.

1. Everyone matters. From cleaning staff to consultants, we’re all essential cogs in the NHS machine. We can’t get through this without each other.

2. Check in with your colleagues and check in with yourself.  Take regular breaks and have days off.  Make sure you take the time to do something you enjoy every day. If someone’s struggling, there’ll always be someone to help. Our colleagues in psychiatry are on the other end of the phone to provide support. 

3. Be honest about your symptoms. If you’re not honest, you’re putting your colleagues and your patients at risk. Don’t downplay what’s going on for you.

4. Reach out to your community. Everyone is very aware of the pressure the NHS is under and wants to offer love and support. This might come in the form of coffee, bagels, fresh fruit and chocolate.

5. Don’t forget to contact your loved ones. They’re as worried about you as you are about them.

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About the author
This doctor works in emergency medicine in a large NHS teaching hospital in London. She’s taking care of patients with COVID-19, whilst working on strategies to support her colleagues’ health and wellbeing.