Self-care is so critical for anyone who works in patient advocacy or any type of role where they are constantly pouring into others. You can’t pour from an empty bucket! Sometimes it can also be as simple as re-centering oneself and why they do what they do and purpose behind the meaningful work of patient advocates!

Patient advocacy can be a difficult task most of the time and advocates who are also patients are especially vulnerable. A supportive colleague would help and enable them step back, and take a break until they are better. It is not so much as work-life balance but very much a life-advocacy balance. A short sabbatical or using that vacation or comp time to have a complete change of scene and hopefully, as a result, a positive change of heart and mind. Passion needs to be re-charged like a low battery. Encouraging self-care is a fundamental tool in recovery and maintaining it takes work and modifying harmful habits. Patient advocacy can be an uphill slog so patience, persistence and passion are in order. And support from friends and peers!

To support a colleague in patient advocacy facing burnout, I would first encourage open communication, offering a safe space to share their challenges. I’d help them prioritize self-care by suggesting manageable workloads and creating a system for delegating tasks. Together, we could explore strategies for maintaining their passion, such as focusing on patient success stories, collaborating with peers for shared experiences, and engaging in regular mental health breaks. By fostering a supportive environment and promoting work-life balance, I can help them regain energy and continue empowering patients effectively.