What A Public Relations Consultant At A Medical Transport Company Wishes They Had Known Before Entering The Healthcare Industry
Nicole, a public relations consultant in medical transportation, wishes someone had emphasized the emotional toll of the job, stating that "it's okay to not be okay." The high-pressure environment, often involving "very emotionally charged and heavy incidents," necessitates prioritizing self-care through resources like employee assistance programs or therapy to maintain well-being and effectively manage the demanding nature of the work.
Crisis Communication, Emotional Resilience, Mental Health Resources, Healthcare Public Relations, Stress Management
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Nicole Michel
Public Relations Consultant
A Global Medical Transportation Company
California State University Chico
N/A
Creative Writing, Journalism
Healthcare, Medical & Wellness
Communication and Marketing
None Applicable
Video Highlights
1. The emotional toll of working in crisis communication and media relations can be significant, so prioritizing self-care is crucial.
2. Take advantage of employee assistance programs and other support systems offered by your organization.
3. It's acceptable to take breaks and step away from emotionally charged situations to maintain your well-being and continue working effectively.
Transcript
What have you learned about this role that you wish someone had told you before you entered the industry?
It's okay to not be okay. In crisis situations, particularly in EMS and healthcare, and even in industries like law enforcement or if you're a PIO for a fire department, you can deal with very emotionally charged and heavy incidents.
Unfortunately, when you work with the media, they're not always the most compassionate. Their job is to gather and share information as quickly as possible. You are running so fast that you don't always have time to check in with yourself emotionally, and that can get really challenging.
It's okay to utilize your organization's employee assistance programs if they exist. It's also okay to speak to chaplains or therapists.
It's okay to feel like what you're working on is very heavy, because it is. These are sometimes very challenging subjects. It's okay to walk away from it and take a break, and make sure you're doing things for yourself to ensure you can continue with the job that you need to do.