Help for the Healer: A Statewide Initiative to Support Medical Professionals-View Presentation

Video Transcription

Video Summary

Sarah Coffey, a child and adolescent psychiatrist at Oklahoma State University's Center for Health Sciences, presents alongside Dr. Frank Clark on the "Help for the Healer" program at Oklahoma State University. This initiative is part of the ECHO (Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes) model, which aims to provide support to healthcare providers dealing with stress and burnout, particularly exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. The program creates virtual spaces where healthcare professionals can connect, share experiences, and engage in wellness practices like mindfulness and creative exercises.<br /><br />The discussion highlights the increasing mental strain on healthcare professionals, specifically noting the high incidence of burnout leading to significant personal and professional consequences. Both Dr. Coffey and Dr. Clark emphasize the importance of creative outlets such as writing and poetry as therapeutic tools that can contribute to personal well-being and community engagement.<br /><br />They note that addressing burnout requires not only personal mindfulness and wellness practices but also systemic changes in healthcare environments. A socio-ecological model is proposed to consider the various levels—from individual to public policy—that impact wellness, advocating for collaborative efforts toward systemic improvements.<br /><br />The presentation also features a brief mindfulness exercise and a creative writing activity, underscoring the potential of the arts to foster healing and offer emotional and intellectual stimulation. They encourage using these creative practices as both personal and professional tools for maintaining mental health in the demanding field of healthcare.

Keywords

Sarah Coffey

Frank Clark

Help for the Healer

ECHO model

healthcare burnout

mindfulness

creative exercises

COVID-19 pandemic

wellness practices

socio-ecological model

systemic changes