On R U OK? Day 2018, the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine (ACRRM) asks all its members to consider their mental well-being and that of their colleagues and if they see need, take some positive action.

“ACRRM knows how much rural and remote communities depend on their local doctors and the services they provide; R U OK? Day is a chance for us to ask the important question of our members - are you looking after yourselves and getting the support you need?” said ACRRM immediate Past President Professor Lucie Walters.

“All that is great about rural practice can also bring personal pressures. Proactive self-care is good medical practice.

“With providing a clinically complex and varied scope of practice comes professional challenge. With the adventure of taking up work ‘off the beaten track’ can come distance from you extended social support network. And with the rewards of providing greatly valued services, being highly visible and viewed as a community leader, comes heightened personal responsibility.

“Rural and remote doctors are part of their local community. When the people of your town are under pressure, this can take a toll on you. This is especially true right now for many of our members in drought affected communities.”

ACRRM encourages all members to not lose sight of what they love about their job, and at the same time, to take regular steps to maintain their own mental wellbeing and general health. 

Some positive steps might be:

  • Making sure you know where help is available to you and your colleagues
  • Adopting a healthier lifestyle, ensuring you have daily sun and exercise, and time-out when you need it
  • Strengthening your personal support base, making time for your friendships and support networks, finding a mentor, or planning regular networking opportunities with your peers.

“The upcoming Rural Medicine Australia 2018 Conference and other College events, our ruralEM forum, TeleDerm and other online forums and webinars, and participation in ACRRM committees all provide peer networking opportunities to which we encourage members to engage, or they may wish to contact us about our Mentoring Program,” said Prof Walters.

“We encourage all our members to be mindful of their needs and those of their colleagues, not just on this day, but as part of their daily routines and practice. 

“Most importantly, we ask our members to check on their colleagues and friends who may be under stress and take the time to ask them if they’re ok.”

The Doctors’ Health Advisory Services in each state or territory and the CRANAPlus Bush Crisis Line offer 24-hour support services specifically designed for our profession.