Part of the Health Insider series on POMConnect
As healthcare providers, our lives often revolve around the demanding schedules of our profession. But amidst the hustle and bustle of medical practice, it’s essential to find moments of respite and rejuvenation. In this article, I want to share with you a glimpse into my world outside of work and how these interests contribute to my effectiveness as a healthcare provider.
Exploring My Passions
I often joke that my foray into various interests might be construed as a mid-life crisis, but truth be told, it’s more about embracing life’s diverse experiences. Perhaps it is also something that I may have learnt inadvertently from my patients as well. I’ve come to find that I enjoy activities that push me beyond the confines of my medical role.
Whether it’s the adrenaline rush of Dragonboat racing with a Community Sports Network (CSN) affiliate, Paddlers Against Limits (PALS), the meditative calm of long-distance running, the mental challenge of jigsaw puzzles, or the emotional rollercoaster of stories and drama (in both my patients’ stories and in traditional media), each pursuit offers a unique escape from the rigors of my profession.
The Call of Adventure
My love for travel stems from a deep-seated curiosity about different cultures and ways of life. Immersing myself in unfamiliar environments allows me to gain fresh perspectives and a deeper understanding of human diversity. Since 2019, I have participated as a volunteer doctor for overseas community projects, such as the Sa’Bai and Sothea initiatives in Cambodia with medical students from NUS. This has been particularly rewarding.
Balancing Act
I believe we all need an outlet, a healthy outlet. Finding time for these interests amidst a demanding job requires intentional prioritisation. Engaging in sports, whether team-based or individual, provides us with a valuable opportunity to explore new facets of ourselves—our strengths, limitations, preferences, and aspirations. There’s an inherent drive to improve and excel in whatever we pursue. For me, this drive manifests in regular rowing sessions with Paddlers Against Limits (PALS) and pushing myself to run longer distances.
Personally, I love the peace and the time spent while running long distance. It allows me to think things through and to take in the sights and sounds without always being in a hurry. I’ve ventured beyond the familiar routes of Singapore, trying my legs at races like the StanChart and 2XU. However, it was at the Angkor War International Half Marathon in Siem Reap, post-pandemic, that was truly exhilarating.
Bringing It Back to Practice
But how do these personal pursuits translate to my role as a healthcare provider? For me, it’s all about letting off steam and gaining fresh insights. Engaging in non-medical activities helps me recharge and approach patient care with renewed passion and empathy. The lessons learned—perseverance to continuously improve one’s practice, collaboration with other colleagues to reach a mutual therapeutic goal, and resilience to provide the best care possible—seamlessly integrate into my practice, enriching the care I provide to my patients.
Building Connections
In the realm of psychiatry and therapeutic relationship building, we refer to this practice as disclosure. When done thoughtfully, it can serve as a powerful tool for positive modelling and fostering trust between patients and healthcare providers. However, it’s essential to tread carefully, as indiscriminate disclosure may inadvertently burden patients, especially those grappling with depression. Achieving the right balance is paramount, requiring careful consideration and discretion in its implementation.
Tips for Fellow Healthcare Providers
Finding the balance between work and personal interests isn’t easy, but it’s essential for our well-being and effectiveness as healthcare providers. Start small, find activities that resonate with you, and gradually build them into your routine. Surround yourself with supportive peers who share your interests, and don’t forget to prioritise self-care along the way. In conclusion, our personal interests offer more than just moments of enjoyment; they are integral to our practice as healthcare providers in so many ways. Embrace your passions, find moments of respite amidst the chaos, and remember that taking care of yourself is just as important as caring for others.
POMConnect would like to thank Dr Lui Yit Shiang
for his invaluable insights and contribution to this article.
Dr Lui Yit Shiang, MBBS, MMed (Psychiatry), MRC Psych, MSc (Addiction Studies), is a Specialist in Psychiatry and Director at Otium Mindhealth Pte Ltd. He holds certification as a substance abuse and gambling addiction counsellor from the Association of Professionals Specialising in Addiction Counselling (APSAC). He earned his MSc in Addiction Studies from King’s College London with distinction, receiving the award for best research. Dr. Liu was granted the Academic Medicine Development Award (AMDA) by the National University Hospital (NUH). He is also conferred as an Associate of King’s College (AKC) and serves as an associate member of the Academy of Consultation Liaison Psychiatry (ACLP) in the US. Dr Lui’s clinical focus includes addiction psychiatry interventions and comprehensive consultation liaison services, ensuring holistic care for his patients.
To connect with Dr Lui, please visit:
Otium Mindhealth
03-03, i12 Katong, 112 East Coast Road, Singapore 428802
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