“Care for Yourself to Better Care for Others”: A Health Awareness Session on Nutrition and Self-Care for Nurses at the Social Services Hospital (Dar Al-Ajaza)

As part of its ongoing commitment to promoting health awareness among its nursing staff, the Social Services Hospital in Tripoli organized an educational session entitled “Care for Yourself to Better Care for Others: Nutrition and Self-Care for Better Health.” The initiative reflects the Hospital’s belief that supporting healthcare providers and safeguarding their health are essential to sustaining the high-quality, compassionate care they deliver to patients.

The session targeted a group of female nurses working at the Hospital and coincided with Breast Cancer Awareness Month, known as Pink October, a World Health Organization’s international awareness yearly campaign dedicated to raising awareness of breast cancer and highlighting the importance of early detection.

The session was delivered by the Hospital’s nutrition specialist, Dr. Mariam Omeich, who emphasized the importance of physical and psychological well-being among nurses and healthcare providers. While dedicating themselves to caring for others, healthcare professionals often place their own health needs second amid the demands and daily pressures of their work.

The session explored the relationship between healthy lifestyle choices and disease prevention, with a particular focus on balanced nutrition, consuming meals rich in essential nutrients, limiting unhealthy foods, engaging in regular physical activity, and maintaining a healthy weight. These practices can contribute to better overall health and enhanced physical and psychological well-being.

Dr. Omeich also stressed the importance of keeping up with routine medical check-ups and not postponing them, highlighting the vital role of early breast cancer detection in improving treatment opportunities and health outcomes. She emphasized that caring for others must go hand in hand with caring for one’s own health—before, during, and after working hours.

The session covered several practical topics, including the impact of nursing work on health, the benefits of proper nutrition, and how to prepare balanced meals suited to shift schedules. Participants also received simple dietary recommendations to help maintain energy levels and sustain concentration throughout their working hours.

The session concluded with practical tips and simple daily habits that nurses can incorporate into their routines to improve their lifestyles, protect their health, and manage their energy more effectively and sustainably.