Own Oxygen Mask First -The Physiology of Caring

Ask a hundred people how they are – ‘Fine’ – Fearful, Insecure, Neurotic and Emotionally Imbalanced (Denial). Ask a hundred health professionals how they feel – and they can’t answer, they’re too busy looking after others (Displacement). The two D’s of Denial and Displacement lead us straight to distress, despair, disillusion, exhaustion, drink, drugs and depression.

One of the Kindness Festival’s Self-Care Lunchtimes, this 40-minute session is aimed specifically at healthcare workers and people in the caring professions. Somerset doctor and educator Dr Andrew Tresidder will remind us that we cannot draw water from an empty well and take us through some simple physical and psychological topics. Come and remind yourself how to keep your own fuel tank full.

Dr Andrew Tresidder is a GP and GP Appraiser with experience in Medical School teaching (Bristol), Pastoral Care and Support of Doctors (SouthWest England), and previous Mental Health, Police and Prison work. He has shared widely on Health and Self Care for the BMA Local Engagement Project, NHS England RO’s and Appraisers, GPs and GP Trainers, SAS Doctors, Consultants, F1’s, Medical Students and other professional groups.