13 Aug Self-Care for Medical Interpreters

Medical interpreting is a complex task that involves not only specific training in terminology, culture and interpreting techniques, but also psychological difficulties. The work environment presents a myriad of factors and situations that pose an additional challenge for interpreters and generate a certain emotional exhaustion. For example, they have to communicate bad news, hostile emotions or situations involving mistreatment or death. That is why we should pay special attention to self-care for medical interpreters.

The challenges faced by a medical interpreter

Healthcare interpreters work in environments that bring many challenges. They are present at many important moments in people’s lives and witness very difficult situations, which makes it really hard to remain emotionally detached while also doing a good job. What are some of the challenges medical interpreters face?

Code of Ethics

Interpreters must maintain the boundaries of their professional role and refrain from personal involvement. In addition, they should be very careful about what is disclosed, which can make it stressful and hard to know what it is okay to talk about when they have had a difficult encounter.

Professional Isolation

Many interpreters work independently or in contexts where they are the only professionals in their field. This can lead to a sense of isolation and lack of support.

Secondary trauma

Interpreters are by the side of the suffering patients and their loved ones. Moreover, they not only listen to the message, but also process it, translate it and then convey it in the first person. That means listening carefully and paying attention to issues that may be unpleasant.

Identification with patients and re-traumatisation

Re-traumatisation is the reliving of previous traumatic experiences that are triggered by being in a similar situation. This may be, for example, an illness or the loss of a loved one.

Unpredictability of income and schedules

Freelancer interpreters may have to juggle assignments or may go through periods when assignments are scarce. Another source of stress is taxes.

Self-Care Solutions for Medical Interpreters

If interpreters can identify potential sources of stress early on, they can reduce the negative effects by practicing self-care and thus prevent burnout and other negative consequences. What are the key factors in self-care for medical interpreters?

A support network

Seeking support from others is crucial. After a difficult encounter, an interpreter may need to debrief with a supplier, a supervisor or colleagues and may even consider seeking professional help. A robust support network provides encouragement, perspective and an outlet for stress.

Saying no

Because of the unpredictability of scheduling, when interpreters are offered assignments, they may think that they should accept whatever is offered. However, they should first take a pause and think about whether it is possible to fit the interpreting assignment into their schedule.

Healthy eating

Eating a nutritious diet is crucial for maintaining energy and concentration during long working days. Always carry a bottle of water in your bag and protein-rich snacks to eat on the go just in case you do not have time to eat.

Exercise

Do the sport you like most: walking, swimming, cycling, yoga, strength training, etc. Exercise reduces anxiety and depression and enhances focus, concentration and mental endurance.

Mindfulness

This is one of the most effective ways to reduce stress and anxiety. Focusing on your breath and clearing your mind can improve your mental well-being, calm worried thoughts, increase focus and allow you to approach each interpreting session with a fresh, open mind.

Yoga

Regular yoga sessions help relieve muscle tension and foster relaxation and presence. Yoga incorporates some things that are always included in self-care: exercise, mindfulness and breathing.

Creativity

Painting is a great way to unwind and also helps with mindfulness! Music also relieves stress. Do some karaoke, join a choir or go to a singing class. You can also learn to play an instrument or even dance!

Breaks

Communicate with your superiors when you need to take a break. If you do not communicate, it is hard for others to understand how difficult an interpretation job may have been. Setting boundaries, avoiding over-commitment and taking time to recharge are essential for avoiding burnout.

Raising awareness of the difficulties of this work

Interpreters involved in medical services are highly likely to face situations that may exceed their usual capacity to cope. As healthcare interpreters, you must remember that you need to look after yourself too and you can do that by recognising the warning signs that something is wrong and practicing self-care to prevent and mitigate the long-term consequences to your physical and mental health. Experiment with what works best for you and commit to taking care of yourself and helping others.