Working in healthcare is one of the most rewarding professions—but it’s also one of the most demanding. We understand the pressures you face, from the physical demands of long shifts to the emotional weight of caring for patients and families. That’s why Texas Children’s is committed to supporting you with programs, tools and resources designed to help you thrive.
Burnout is a reality for many healthcare workers, but it’s not inevitable. Recognizing the signs and accessing available support can make all the difference.
Recognizing the Signs of Burnout
Burnout isn’t the same as stress, it’s more pervasive and persistent. Defined by three key dimensions, burnout manifests as:
- Emotional exhaustion: Feeling drained, overwhelmed and unable to recharge.
- Depersonalization: Becoming detached or indifferent toward patients or colleagues.
- Reduced sense of accomplishment: Struggling to find meaning in your work or feeling ineffective.
If you’re experiencing any of these signs, you’re not alone. The resources and tips below are designed to help address challenges early and build resilience. If your symptoms of burnout are severe and self-care strategies are no longer working, our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) provides confidential counseling for team members who are struggling. Visit the EAP SharePoint or call 832.824.3327 for access to on-site services and support.
Supporting your physical health
Taking care of your physical and mental health lays the foundation for resilience. Texas Children’s offers a variety of programs to make prioritizing wellness more accessible:
- Employee Medical Services: Access full-service primary care, flu vaccines, and workplace injury support through the Employee Medical Clinic (EMC) and Employee Health programs.
- Fitness classes: Join a yoga or strength training class to incorporate movement into your week and recharge.
- Health coaching: Meet with a coach to create a personalized wellness plan focused on nutrition, exercise or other health goals.
Action for this week: Schedule a quick 10-minute stretch break during your shift, sign up for a free fitness class, or set up an appointment with a health coach through Workforce Well-Being.
Building mental, emotional and spiritual resilience
Healthcare work can be emotionally taxing, which is why Texas Children’s offers robust support for emotional and spiritual well-being:
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Take advantage of on-site confidential counseling, mental health toolkits, and stress management resources for you and your family.
- Workforce Chaplains and grief support: Access compassionate support through one-on-one sessions or group settings.
- Mindfulness resources: Apply strategies from the Mindfulness Moments Series or begin your own practice of deep breathing, meditation or reflective journaling to reset and reconnect.
Action for this week: Begin a Starting Shift and Going Home Checklist practice to help keep a positive mindset at work. Visit the EAP SharePoint or Spiritual Well-Being pages to explore more mindfulness resources.
Setting boundaries to recharge
Setting boundaries isn’t about saying “no” to everything—it’s about making space for the things that matter most. Protecting your time can improve focus and help prevent burnout.
- Take breaks: Build short pauses into your day to recharge. Even five minutes of breathing or stretching can help.
- Set clear limits: Define an end to your workday and prioritize time for personal activities, hobbies or rest.
- Stress management: Explore our suite of in-person or virtual sessions on topics like guided walks, stress management tips and breathing exercises.
Action for this week: Block out 10 minutes on your calendar for a workday break and commit to leaving work on time at least one day.
Finding strength in community
Connecting with colleagues can be a lifeline in challenging times. Texas Children’s fosters a supportive environment through unique opportunities for connection:
- Expressive Art for Well-Being: Join or request an immersive session to create art, socialize with colleagues and take a mental break.
- Employee pet therapy: Spend time with therapy animals during on-site visits to boost your mood and reduce stress.
- Team-building activities: Engage in wellness challenges, creative workshops or casual coworker connections.
Action for this week: Reach out to a coworker to share a break or lunch or sign up to attend a team-building activity of your choice to connect with others.
Celebrating excellence in employee well-being
Texas Children’s Pediatrics recently earned the prestigious Joy in Medicine™ distinction from the American Medical Association (AMA). This honor recognizes commitment to fostering a culture of resilience, connection, and care—values that extend across all areas of our organization. We are proud to be acknowledged as a leader in supporting employee well-being.
Explore the resources available to you
Burnout is a serious challenge, but at Texas Children’s, you’re never facing it alone. We encourage you to visit the Workforce Well-Being page to explore the many tools and resources Texas Children’s offers to help you thrive physically, mentally and emotionally.