Warning signs
Nurses deal with stressful situations on a daily basis that not only effect them physically but may also impair their mental health. This may eventually effect a nurses ability to cope. Here are some signs to watch for if you think You may be suffering from Burn out: APATHY-You don’t think anything you do is good enough and nothing interests you; DISTRACTION-you are forgetful and can’t concentrate or stay focused; DREAD-you dread the thought of going to work or want to leave as soon as you get there; EXHAUSTION /FATIGUE-low energy and no interest in working; IRRITATION-easily irritated by even the smallest things; ISOLATION-avoiding social interactions and making excuses not to see people.
How to manage
First of all, you need to identify the source of your stress in order to address and control the stress. Remain positive about your nursing job but at the same time, try to come up with realistic solutions to the issues that are causing it. Don’t be afraid to express your frustrations to colleagues because they may feel the same. Make relaxation exercises a habit like deep breathing , 10 minute yoga or stretching at the nurse’s desk. Kick unhealthy habits like smoking, alcohol, drugs and caffeine intake. Eat a balanced diet and get adequate sleep. Both will contribute to overall good health and when you’re at your best health, it’s hard for stress to take over your body.
You don’t have to be burnt out, you shouldn’t be burnt out, don’t accept burn out as your normal state of being. Incorporate the recommended self-care habits until you have a healthy balance and beat the Burn-Out.
Some recommended reading that has been helpful to me https://amzn.to/3MS6U8I “The Real Issue In Nursing Stress and Mental Illness” A Short Book Every Nurse Should Read.
