Professor Michael Kidd answers GP questions on pandemic self-care

GPs have revealed how the "rollercoaster ride" of the past six weeks has impacted their mental health — and shared tips on how they have managed.

The Department of Health's latest webinar for GPs focussed on self-care, with Professor Michael Kidd suggesting GPs try meditation and practice mindfulness to cope with the extra stress of COVID-19.

He was joined by fellow Deputy Chief Medical Officer Dr Jenny Firman and Dr Katrina Anderson, a GP from Canberra.

Dr Anderson said one of the biggest challenges for her had been adapting to telehealth and the lack of face-to-face contact with her patients.

"So much of what we do as GPs is that connection to the patient," she said.

"And I miss them. I really miss them. And I find that I’m feeling more worried about them, because I haven’t got that personal