In this episode we talk to Dr Olivia Ong who we've already met in Medical Mums chat. She shares her burnout experience and has just released a book on burnout. Find more information at https://drolivialeeong.com/

Here's what Olivia says about burnout. 

I was told I would never walk again.

In 2008, I was walking to work when I was hit by a car travelling 60 km an hour.

The impact rendered me a paraplegic. I spent 2 years in a wheelchair and was told I’d never be able to walk again.

But I was resilient and never gave up hope. I spent 2 years in Project Walk, San Diego and I did learn to walk again with grit, determination, and the support of my husband, family, and close friends.

I’d learnt what it was like to be a patient on the other side of the healthcare system and when I returned to Melbourne, I threw myself into my new private practice in rehabilitation and pain medicine. I became a mum and continued my studies.

But the combination of living with a spinal cord injury, motherhood, full-time work, and studying for fellowship exams exhausted me. I ignored the warning signs, feeling that burnout was a sign of vulnerability and weakness. I just keep pushing through.

Until eventually, I was burned out.

I have visions of the doctor and mother I want to be.

Deep down I knew there's got to be a way which I can build my career while growing my family, and become the leader and mother I envision myself to be without the burnout.

I was determined to find the way, and I did.

We encourage anyone who recognises their own burnout while listening to seek some support and here is a list of places you might start.  http://www.dhaswa.com.au/

https://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au/the-essential-network/

https://theburnoutproject.com.au/

https://drolivialeeong.com/

https://wholeheartedmedicine.com.au/

Lifeline 131114

Please send through any resources you recommend and I will update this list in an ongoing manner. [email protected]