For organizations working to address the opioid crisis, staff wellness initiatives offer a range of benefits, including:
- Helping staff feel supported & connected
- Addressing stress, fatigue & burnout
- Enabling staff to provide better care to patients
- Creating opportunities for creativity & camaraderie
- Supporting staff retention
These initiatives—which staff can participate in as they work remotely with one another—are all the more important during COVID-19. Below are tips for program leaders and team members on promoting wellness, as well as resources to support the behavioral health of staff.
Leaders: Learning & connecting
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Topics |
Tips |
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Research & preparation
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Gather behavioral health resources from agencies & organizations. |
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Reading may include:
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Research pre-existing wellness programs in the region or health system. |
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Surveys
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Survey staff to learn about levels of stress, wellness, burnout. |
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Anonymous input |
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Follow-up
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Communication |
Hold one-on-one meetings, with self-care built into the outline for supervision notes:
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Check-in at group meetings:
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E-newsletter focused on wellness |
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Highlight shared sense of purpose |
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Ideas
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Dedicate time at staff meetings to recognizing colleagues' contributions. |
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Reduce meeting fatigue by ending 60-minute meetings 10-15 minutes early. |
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Choose virtual backgrounds that set a relaxing tone. |
Team members: Incorporating relaxation & fun
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Topics |
Tips |
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Relaxation time
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Meditation
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Wellness room
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Activities |
Break the routine
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Special occasions
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Ideas |
Fun committee
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Fun Fridays
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