Supporting Those Who Support Others: A Day with NHS Dieticians

Recently, Samantha and I had the privilege of spending a day at the Whittington Hospital in London, running our workshop on Managing Anxiety in Clinical Settings for a large group of dieticians working across various departments. It was an inspiring and humbling experience.

We were struck by the sheer scope of their responsibilities and the high levels of complexity they manage every day. It was clear that the emotional and cognitive demands of their roles are significant and yet, their dedication and resilience shone through. We came away with deep respect for these professionals, and renewed admiration for the people who keep our NHS going, often under immense pressure.

We were also reminded of the passion that draws so many into helping professions. For most of us, it’s more than just a job. That sense of purpose is powerful.  It fuels our commitment and care. But, like any fuel, it isn’t limitless. Without regular replenishment, even the most devoted professionals can burn out. Passion alone can’t keep us going if we’re constantly running on empty.

That’s why we were so grateful for the chance to introduce a subject close to our hearts: managing work-related anxiety by understanding the biological roots of empathy distress, the shared values that can drive overextension, and the importance of developing sustainable practices. We also explored the very real importance of self-care.  Not as a luxury, but as a necessity.

Whether you're a dietitian, therapist, nurse, or anyone in a caring role, the principle remains the same: we need to put on our own oxygen masks before we can effectively help others. It's not easy, especially in stretched systems, but it's essential for building working lives that are both sustainable and satisfying.  If your team could benefit from some input on staying resourced, get in touch.

Take care,

Jude & Sam