We had an interview with the medical psychologist Dr. Anastasija Georgievska, where she shares her tips and views on self-compassion and burnout.

She is both passionate and curious, having strong interest in medical psychology, particularly in psychopathology and its complexities.

She loves to learn and explore new things, especially when it comes to art and fashion.

She is empathetic and compassionate medical psychologist, who values self-compassion and believes it plays a crucial role in preventing burnout.

Her dedication to helping others through research and practical strategies demonstrates her empathy toward people.

In this interview she explains honestly, that overcoming burnout has been a journey for her too, but she has learned valuable skills and developed resilience.

And despite her academic achievements, family and friends remain the most important to her.

Her enjoyment for small pleasures, like spending time with her two cats, and her monthly vacations home demonstrate a deeper and more profound connection to finding joy in daily life.

So, let’s begin!

the interview

Anastasija, Can you tell us a little bit more about yourself?

Hello there, Irena! Let me dive right into it. I work as a clinical and counseling psychologist and now I pursue a PhD in this field.

My parents and my wonderful, aspirational sister, who have been my unwavering supports throughout my journey, deserve my appreciation for helping me achieve this kind of success.

Outside of the professional sphere, I find enjoyment with my three beloved kitties and my sweetest niece when around. Also my closest friends, who are truly priceless to me, add laughter and meaningful purpose to my life.

In terms of love, I can say that I am fortunate to have an amazing and hardworking man by my side while we work with a good sense of humor and a strong cup of coffee, through all of the challenges that life brings.

Something interesting about me, is that during wintertime, I enjoy sweets and preparing different dishes. Winter has a special place in my heart, because it offers quiet and cozy atmosphere that I really enjoy.

I find comfort in the little joys of the season, like the amazing snowfall.

Am, overall, I consider myself to be a clinical psychologist who is now involved in the more specialized facets of this discipline.

And as I further navigate my life, I continue to find balance in my personal and professional life thanks to my strong support system, the relationship with my love, my three cats, and the simple everyday pleasures like watching cat videos and trying new things, especially new desserts.

What are your hobbies and interests?

Hmm when it come to my hobbies and interests I find myself being too curious about everything that catches my attention.

I am currently exploring various facets of the human behavior through the lens of evolutionary psychology. I’m drawn to podcasts that delve into evolutionary psychology, offering both knowledge and diverse perspectives in this field.

I can also tell that my exams keep me moving forward and on course to consistently learn about the human psyche.

When it comes to exploring, my monthly trips to my hometown are a cherished ritual, not just for the nostalgia but for the invaluable time spent with my parents and relatives.

It’s a chance to reconnect, share stories, and soak in the warmth of family bonds.

And, I sometimes dive into fashion and epoxy resin too.

I am a great fan of second-hand clothes, because it’s not only a sustainable choice but also an appreciation for the unique stories woven into each piece.

I enjoy spending hours creating my own jewelry designs or other things, such ashtrays made of epoxy resin, because it allows me to express myself creatively and serves as therapy too.

What can you share with us about your education background? Where did you studies and for how long?

So, I am currently specializing in medical psychology at the University Clinic for Psychiatry in Skopje.

At the University of “St. Cyril and Methodius” in Skopje, I received my psychology degree.

This foundational academic experience laid the groundwork for my understanding of psychology and human behavior.

Following my academic path, I graduated from MSU “G. R. Derzhavin” in Sveti Nikole with a master’s degree in clinical and counseling psychology.

I expanded my professional arsenal by studying neuropsychology at the Academy of Clinical Neuropsychology with neuropsychological diagnostics at “Cognicija“, Skopje, to support my clinical emphasis.

In addition to formal schooling, I also completed non-formal education courses and received training in constructivist psychotherapy. To broaden my horizons, I have also dabbled in a variety of fields of study, including positive psychology, art, and journalism.

My educational career, which began in high school in Delcevo, North Macedonia, and continued through my bachelor’s and master’s degrees in psychology to my present area of specialization, has been truly a dynamic combination of formal and informal education that have shaped me into the psychologist I am today.

What influenced your decision to pursue a profession in medical psychology?

Well, considering my deep love for medicine and my curiosity for the human mind, it seemed natural for me to seek a career in medical psychology.

I have always had a strong interest in the medical field, finding myself drawn to the dynamic environment of hospitals and the collaborative nature of working alongside psychiatrists.

Throughout my journey, the appeal of psychopathology with its complex issues has remained a constant.

Untangling the complexity of the human mind is intrinsically fascinating to me, and the idea of addressing psycho-pathological issues gives my work an additional layer of emotional and intellectual depth.

Challenges in medical psychology provide a constant source of motivation. It is a field where each case is unique, presenting a puzzle that requires not only theoretical knowledge, but also a deep understanding of the individual’s experiences and struggles.

The intricate relationship that exists between mental and physical health further reinforced my desire to pursue research in this specialized branch of psychology.

To put it simply, my interest in medicine, the possibility of working in hospitals, the opportunity to work together with psychiatrists, and the fascinating problems linked to psychopathology all encouraged me to pursue a career in medical psychology.

I can easily combine my passions with my work while having a significant influence on people’s mental health and their well-being.

What exactly is medical psychology, and what areas does it cover?

Medical (clinical) psychology is a branch of psychology focused on assessing, diagnosing, and treating mental health disorders.

Medical psychologists use therapeutic methods to help individuals cope with psychological challenges, promote mental well-being, and conduct research to advance understanding in the field.

The academic program in North Macedonia includes General Psychopathology, Developmental Psychology with Psychopathology, Psychodiagnostics, Psychotherapy, Psychology of Personality, Psychological Counseling with Prevention and Crisis Intervention, Forensic Psychology, and Methodology.

What were some of the most influential experiences and mentors that shaped your professional approach to medical psychology?

The time spent at the psychiatric clinic in Skopje is the most influential experience in itself, and that comes from experienced professionals in the clinic who have become my colleagues and educators.

I have to mention here my mentor who is truly exceptional mentor.

So, their guidance not only shaped my practical abilities, but also added humor to the serious world of medical psychology.

These experiences have been the backbone of my journey, transforming me from a psychology enthusiast into the professional I need to be, with a knack for capable of navigating the complexities of mental health in a way that is both effective and enjoyable.

And, honestly, I can’t pick a favorite experience because they all had an impact on me and have taught me skills that have helped my professional approach to people.

What specific areas in medical psychology are most interesting to you and why?

Although every area of medical psychology is fascinating, if I had to pick the two most compelling elements, that would be the dynamic nature of psychodiagnostics and the nuanced challenges of psychopathology.

Psychodiagnostics, with its so-called puzzle-solving approach to understanding mental health, has continuously sparked my curiosity.

On the other hand, researching psychopathology, where each case reveals unique complexities, has me delving further into the core of the problems.

Which patient profile is the most common one you work with? Elderly, young, families?

My target audience tends to be young adults and older people, therefore I work with them most of the time.

Though I do occasionally deal with minors, much of my work focuses on the specific needs and difficulties young adults have. This allows me to tailor my approach to each individual and address the specific life problems for these age groups.

Self-Compassion and Burnout

We met at the 7th Congress of Psychiatry and Neurology and 2nd for Dementia in Ohrid, N. Macedonia.

There, at the congress, you presented research on self-compassion and burnout and how these two conditions affect The well-being among citizens in Macedonia.

Can you tell us more about this and how it applies in our country?

Yes, I did present my study at the Congress on burnout and its effects on healthcare professionals and the overall healthcare system.

The study looked at the relationship between burnout and self-compassion among mental health practitioners.

The Self-Compassion Scale (SCS) and Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) were used to examine data from 77 individuals.

Findings highlight the prevalence of burnout among mental health practitioners and provide self-compassion as a defensive strategy.

These factors – understanding the relationship, gender/profession differences, and implications for healthcare – were all taken into consideration.

My findings show a clear association between self-compassion and burnout: the more self-compassion one has, the less depersonalization and burnout one experiences.

Conversely, negative self-compassion increases depersonalization and it raises higher burnout in the life of the individual.

In Macedonia, it is clear that there is a lack of attention on resolving burnout and encouraging self-compassion.

While these notions are important for mental health, there appears to be a lack of understanding and prioritizing tasks in our culture.

The research presented at the conference underlined this gap, implying that additional attention and measures to alleviate burnout and cultivate self-compassion among Macedonians are needed.

Though this study has its own limitations, because of the smaller number of participants, it is definitely a start point recommending further longitudinal studies and broader samples for future research.

To sum up, this study emphasizes the importance of self-compassion in preventing burnout and offers strategies for enhancing professional well-being.

As the mental health field continues to evolve more in our country, this study encourages further exploration of burnout and effective mitigation strategies.

How widespread is burnout among individuals in different professions?

Burnout is common in many professions affecting those who work in high-stress, demanding workplaces.

Examples include healthcare professionals, educators, emergency responders, social workers, IT professionals, legal practitioners, entrepreneurs, and customer service representatives.

The prevalence of burnout is influenced by factors like workload, negative corporate culture, and low work-life balance.

Recognizing signs and taking proactive measures are crucial for both employers and individuals to address and prevent burnout.

What factors contribute to burnout?

Excessive workload, lack of control, insufficient rewards, poor relationships at work, unclear job requirements, mismatched values, poor work-life balance, lack of recognition, insufficient resources, and high-stakes situations are all factors that lead to burnout.

Recognizing and addressing these issues is critical for preventing and minimizing burnout in a wide range of professions.

What are the signs and symptoms of burnout and how can people address them in time, to prevent their condition from escalating?

Recognizing the signs of burnout early on is crucial, as they can manifest in physical, emotional, and behavioral aspects of life.

Physical indicators such as persistent fatigue, sleep disturbances, and physical ailments like headaches may signal burnout.

Emotional signs, such as skepticism, decreased performance, and dissatisfaction, demonstrate the impact on mental health.

Isolation, procrastination, and increased irritation are all behavioral indicators of burnout.

To address these signs, self-reflection is key, allowing individuals to analyze their feelings and behaviors.

Establishing clear boundaries between work and personal life, seeking support from friends or professionals, and prioritizing self-care activities are all important preventative strategies.

Regular work breaks, open communication about ones concerns and worries, and if needed, seeking professional help – all contribute to a complete strategy to preventing burnout and preserving overall well-being.

How can we cultivate appropriate self-compassion in order to avoid burnout?

It takes practical steps to build self-compassion in order to reduce burnout and increase overall well-being.

Practice mindfulness and breathing techniques to develop self-awareness.

To promote compassionate self-dialogue, create and repeat positive affirmations on a regular basis.

Practice self-kindness and enhance mental well-being through self-care practices during challenging times.

Accept that mistakes are a part of the human experience and embrace them.

Seek social support by interacting with people to share experiences and receive compassion.

Set realistic expectations, establish achievable goals and learn to say no when necessary.

Establish appropriate boundaries while juggling work and personal obligations.

Invest in professional development to improve your skills, and keep in mind that cultivating self-compassion is a lifelong process.

By implementing these strategies into daily life, you may build resilience and lower your risk of burnout.

What tangible self-compassion practices, in your opinion, may be integrated into daily life? What are the practical techniques we may use to preserve our well-being and avoid burnout?

Practicing self-awareness (reflecting on our lives), gratitude journaling, self-compassionate letters during challenges, setting realistic goals, taking regular breaks, mindful breathing exercises, positive affirmations, maintaining healthy boundaries, fostering social connections, practicing mindful eating, incorporating regular exercise, investing in professional development, reflective practices are all practical strategies for incorporating self-compassion into daily life to prevent burnout.

Consistency in implementing these strategies promotes resilience and general well-being, lowering the chance of burnout.

How can we balance work, personal responsibilities and self-care to improve our overall well-being?

I’ll say it again, because it bears repeating: Prioritizing and setting boundaries, effective time management with realistic schedules, practicing mindful presence, taking regular micro-restoration breaks, exploring flexible work arrangements, incorporating self-care rituals, maintaining open communication and collaboration, learning to say no when necessary, regular medical examinations, prioritizing quality sleep, reflecting on and reassessing goals, building a support system, celebrating accomplishments, and creating mindful transitions between work and personal life.

These all can contribute to a long and satisfying life.

What resources do we need to effectively deal with burnout?

Dealing with burnout effectively requires a combination of personal and external resources.

Internally, fostering self-awareness and building resilience are crucial.

Externally, seeking social support from family, friends and colleagues, and considering professional guidance from mental health professionals or mentors are necessary.

Engaging in training and continuous learning about mental health improves coping skills, as do efficient time management and prioritizing work-life balance.

I advice prioritizing health and wellness through regular medical examinations, a healthy diet, and physical exercises too.

Also something to consider is: practicing financial planning, planning your vacation and having time for relaxation, recreational activities, and building skills to successfully avoid conflicts – all of these things contribute to a balanced strategy to prevent burnout and enhance general well-being.

What personal experiences or particular methods have you used for self-care if you have encountered burnout?

Ah, the journey to overcoming burnout has been a rollercoaster, but I’ve picked up some useful skills along the way.

First and foremost, I began saying no without feeling guilty.

I started setting boundaries, separating time for me from the unrelenting forces of job expectations.

Then I prioritized mindfulness, devoting at least two minutes for self-reflection.

Spending time with my pets has become a daily ritual for quick happiness for me.

I’ve experimented with sport like stretching, doing brief stretches throughout the day to maintain my body and mind active.

I often reward myself, and it has become a great ritual in my daily self-care routine. Whatever the task, I want to rejoice when I finish it successfully.

Occasionally, it’s a tiny chocolate bar to instantly improve mood, and other times it’s a larger reward.

This routine served as a helpful reminder that celebrating victories—no matter how minor—is a crucial component of the path toward self-care.

Taking things less seriously changed my view of life. In the bigger picture of things, the humorous attitude always lightens the burden and takes the pressure off, in my day to day life.

Through this journey, I have discovered that self-care is not just a routine; it is an evolving masterpiece of personal quirks and pleasures.

And, hey, it’s absolutely fine to indulge in those pleasurable moments—like for example, having a thoughtful pause throughout a stressful day.

Furthermore, is it possible to raise this information to a higher level so that companies and organizations can prevent burnout among workers?

Certainly, using these tactics in the business world can be a game changer. 

The companies can establish environments that emphasize employee well-being by incorporating mindfulness practices, creating a supportive work culture, and acknowledging the significance of work-life balance.

Implementing programs such as mental wellness days, flexible working hours, and cultivating an open communication culture may go a long way toward preventing burnout on a larger scale.

How can we enhance the well-being of our workers?

Promoting open communication across platforms is a key component of increasing awareness about burnout.

Webinars, seminars, and social media campaigns are useful tools for reaching a diverse range of professional audiences.

Stressing the value of getting help assists in reducing stigma, while showcasing testimonials and real-life situations makes them relatable.

Incorporating burnout awareness into wellness efforts and training programs through collaboration between educational institutions, companies, and community groups guarantees a broad impact.

Helping people identify the warning signals, making services easily accessible, and normalizing the discussion of mental health all assist to create a culture in which asking for help is accepted and encouraged.

How can we improve burnout awareness among individuals of all backgrounds and occupations and urge them to seek support and assistance as soon as possible?

Raising awareness about burnout involves fostering an open dialogue across diverse platforms.

Utilizing social media campaigns, webinars, and workshops can effectively reach people from various professions.

Highlighting real-life stories and testimonials creates relatability, while emphasizing the importance of seeking support can reduce stigma.

Collaborating with workplaces, educational institutions, and community organizations to integrate burnout awareness into training programs and wellness initiatives ensures a widespread impact.

Empowering individuals to recognize signs, providing accessible resources, and normalizing the conversation around mental health collectively contribute to a culture where seeking help is encouraged and celebrated.

What support can psychiatrists and psychologists offer patients experiencing burnout to improve their well-being?

Supporting those who are experiencing burnout is a major responsibility of the psychiatrists and psychologists.

Professionals may assist people in exploring the underlying reasons of burnout, identifying coping techniques, and building resilience via individualized therapy sessions.

One effective way to overcome the negative thinking patterns that lead to burnout is to apply cognitive-behavioral strategies.

Psychologists can help patients create appropriate boundaries, set reasonable objectives, and develop better stress management techniques.

Furthermore, physicians can collaborate with these individuals to develop a thorough wellness plan that incorporates self-care routines, social support networks, and changes in habits.

In order to develop trust, empathy, and empowerment and eventually support people on their journey, the therapeutic connection becomes essential.

How can we create a system in our society that values ​​self-compassion and prioritizes the well-being of all people?

Creating a social system that values ​​self-compassion and prioritizes well-being requires a multifaceted approach.

Education is important – from early childhood to adulthood, school program that place a strong emphasis on stress management, emotional intelligence, and understanding of mental health issues i greatly needed.

Workplaces can implement policies that promote a healthy work-life balance, recognizing the importance of employee well-being.

Public health campaigns and media initiatives can destigmatize seeking mental health support, encouraging open conversations about well-being.

Government regulations that guarantee accessibility and promote mental health care can have a big influence too.

Policy evaluations that incorporate wellbeing indicators in addition to economic measurements have the potential to shift the goals of society.

Encouraging people to prioritize self-care without fear of condemnation by creating a culture of empathy and support is essential.

We can create a culture that is more compassionate and well-rounded by encouraging everyone to recognize that self-compassion is a strength rather than a weakness.

How do young psychiatrists struggle to get helpful information out to the public, and how can the media help?

Young psychologists often face challenges to get important information out to the general audience. It can hinder their ability to connect with a larger audience, especially if they are just starting out in their career.

However, social media platforms can be a powerful solution. They can create professional profiles on Twitter, LinkedIn or Instagram to share insight, mental health tips and resources.

Media, both traditional and digital, play a key role in spreading their message.

Collaborating with publications focused on mental health and participating in interviews can also help them.

Social networks and media collaborations, can help psychologists bridge the gap between expert knowledge and public understanding, promoting mental health awareness.

Have you ever wished to create your own social media profile and publicly discuss the country’s critical situations?

Indeed, it might be a good idea to start an Instagram account that shares important information on wellness, self-compassion, and mental health.

It’s good to spread knowledge of these important subjects and reach a larger audience by employing short but informative videos.

By including personal anecdotes, experiences and practical advice, the content can resonate with individuals of many backgrounds.

With this strategy, we can de-stigmatize conversations about mental health, encourage self-compassion, and build a more accepting and understanding community.

What plans and goals do you have for the future that you wish to achieve as a medical psychologist?

My goals for the future as a medical psychologist focuses on developing both personally and professionally.

My first goal is to effectively finish my specialization and get a thorough grasp of medical psychology.

My ideal stay would be in the clinic, where I could continue to study and use my talents in that dynamic atmosphere.

But since professional paths are unpredictable, I still hope to open my own private practice in case circumstances take me in a different direction.

This will provide me the chance to use my knowledge on my own and promote a more individualized method of client service.

Let me say that I will be beginning my integrative psychotherapy training in January.

And in the near future, I’d like to start a Ph.D. program. This academic pursuit will only expand  my understanding in particular areas in medical psychology.

My ultimate goal is to become a medical psychologist with a rewarding and significant career by fusing clinical practice with academic research.

Have you given any consideration to starting a non-governmental organization that would assist and support the psycho-emotional needs of individuals in the region where you work and live?

No, actually no. I haven’t focused too much on this concept because I am already heavily active in providing mental health care, and I don’t have enough time to devote to exploring other ideas because of my present obligations.

What advice would you give to students who are about to begin their medical psychology studies and follow in your footsteps?

Entering the world of medical psychology seems similar to going on an exciting and dynamic journey.

Your teachers and mentors are knowledgeable allies who can provide direction and understanding in this fascinating field of study.

In my opinion, it is very important to stick to the role of a student, because you will have constant well-intentioned criticism.

You need to be receptive to feedback and open to conversation because without it, things get stagnant. I wish them all – Good luck!

Conclusion

Through this interview, Dr. Anastasija has painted a vivid picture of a passionate medical psychologist who navigates the complexities of the human mind with empathy, humor, and resilience.

Her journey from overcoming burnout to embracing self-compassion offers valuable lessons not only for mental health professionals but for anyone seeking a healthier life.

Dr. Anastasija’s research on burnout and self-compassion truly highlights the need for greater awareness of mental health challenges, particularly in demanding professions.

Her call for a culture that prioritizes self-compassion and open dialogue about mental health resonates deeply.

By embracing these values, we can create workplaces that foster employee well-being, educational systems that equip young people with emotional intelligence, and communities that support each other in the pursuit of mental health.

And this is not just about one person’s journey, but about a collective responsibility to prioritize well-being and build a more compassionate world.

As Dr. Anastasija pursues her academic goals and builds a fulfilling career, she reminds us that self-care is not a luxury, but a necessity. By prioritizing self-compassion, we can all create a life filled with purpose, joy, and the resilience to face any challenge.

We wish her good luck!