Healthcare Workers Need Rest Too

Back in clinic today after being out the last three days with a viral infection. Low grade fever, nausea, and dizziness that made even standing up difficult. Every time I tried to get up the room would spin, so I had no choice but to call in. Something I am honestly not used to doing.

I have always been someone who is constantly on the go. Even at home, doing nothing feels uncomfortable because I have long associated productivity with being busy. In my culture, calling in sick can also carry a stigma. It is sometimes viewed as weakness, laziness, or being a burden to others. That mindset can make it very hard to pause, even when your body clearly needs it.

This experience reminded me of something we often tell our patients but forget to apply to ourselves. We have to listen to our bodies. Recovery matters. We cannot provide care for others if we are not able to take care of ourselves first.

Healthcare is rooted in altruism. We are trained to prioritize others and to keep going no matter what. But the truth is that our bodies have limits. Our energy is finite. Without rest, eventually something gives.

I am incredibly thankful for a team that had my back when I needed it. When I called in, they immediately worked on finding coverage and did not make me feel guilty for taking time to recover. That kind of support is not something everyone experiences.

Workplace culture can make or break people in healthcare. Some environments quietly pressure you to come in sick. Others understand that rest is necessary and that taking care of the team ultimately helps take care of the patients.

Listening to our bodies is not weakness. It is recognizing that we cannot pour from an empty cup.

And healthcare workers deserve workplaces that recognize that we need rest too.