Self-Care Week is an annual national awareness week that focuses on raising awareness of the importance of looking after ourselves and promotes how practicing self-care can help us live a healthier and happier life.

Living through the Covid-19 pandemic has been tough for everyone throughout the world, perhaps now more than ever self-care week is particularly important and a useful tool for us all.

As Nurses, Clinicians and Healthcare Professionals you know how important it is to look after your health and wellbeing. In your work you encourage your patients to look after themselves both physically and mentally but, with long, stressful shifts we know it is often hard to make time for yourself!

We know being an Agency Nurse isn’t always easy, but remember you are part of our team and we are always here for you.

We want you to know we appreciate everything you do and know you make a huge difference to our clients, their services and most importantly their patients.

If you have had a bad shift or difficult day our team are here for you at the end of the phone! We also want to know your good news too, sharing your thoughts with our team may make someone smile and make their day a little better!

Remember you can call our team 24/7 on 0333 800 0395

We know this is easier said than done, so we have put together some top tips!

• Sleep – Sleep can have a huge effect on how you feel both emotionally and physically. Not getting enough can even cause major health issues.

• Stay connected – Social interaction is essential to our health and wellbeing. Stay connected to friends and family, especially in these uncertain times. It is also good to talk to people you trust about your concerns and how you’re feeling.

• Exercise – Daily exercise can help you both physically and mentally, boosting your mood and reducing stress and anxiety. Finding the right exercise for you is a great way to look after your long- and short-term health. Exercise is scientifically proven to improve mental health. Gyms and leisure centres may be closed but there are other ways!

• Good nutrition can help boost your mood – Nutrition is essential to maintain physical health and mental wellbeing. Find out more by visiting the NHS website here: https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/eat-well/

• Learning to say no – Saying no can be hard but if you are already stressed or overworked, saying yes can lead to burnouts. Take a look at our blog ‘learning to say no’ here: https://hallammedical.com/learning-to-say-no/

• Spend time outside – Spending time outside can help you reduce stress, lower your blood pressure, and be more mindful. Getting out for some fresh air for either a walk or a run can help with our physical and mental wellbeing.