May 9, 2023

Nurses with Trauma: How to move on and embrace a New Life

Updated: Dec 8, 2023

Nurses with Trauma: How to Move On and Embrace a New Life

It's no lie that working in healthcare is not a stress-free occupation. It can be easy for people to forget that nurses are people too and experience emotions the same as the rest of us.

Nursing is built on a sense of "unwavering dedication, personal sacrifice, and all-encompassing empathy." Which for many is unsustainable without proper support and plans in place to protect workers and their mental health.

So how do they deal with the stress of working in such a fast-paced, emotional environment every day?

Remember why you became a nurse

It's important in times of stress and overwhelms to remember why you became a nurse.

The passion for helping others, improving their lives, and helping them heal is why many first enter the profession.

But is this passion enough when nurses around the globe are experiencing trauma frequently throughout their working lives?

While we do not propose to be an expert in trauma or qualified to give out medical advice we can suggest making some changes on your own that can help you begin healing from trauma.

Tips to help to heal from traumatic experiences

Get moving- Don't succumb to hiding under the duvet all day. Get up, get ready and get outside. Taking a shower, creating simple routines, and experiencing nature will all help improve your mood.
Exercise- Taking part in a low-impact activity can boost your mood and help improve sleep. Taking long woodland walks or attending a yoga class are great ways to help you unwind.
Get quality sleep- Getting a good night's sleep can be challenging when you're stressed. But some things can help. Keeping a journal, limiting caffeine intake in the evenings, and switching off screens can all help improve your sleep. If you are still struggling, consider talking to your doctor.
Be aware of negative coping strategies- Turning to cigarettes, food, alcohol, or drugs as a coping strategy may help relieve trauma symptoms for a short while but will create more problems in the long term. These strategies do not deal with the underlying effects of trauma. Seeking help if you feel you are using any of the above as a coping strategy is essential.
Take part in things you enjoy- Help distract your mind from thinking about your trauma by participating in hobbies and experiences you enjoy. Learn a new skill, spend time with loved ones, or watch your favourite movie. Every positive thing you take part in will help you heal.

Talk to others- Never underestimate the power of talking. It's important to remember that you are not alone and that other colleagues may feel the same as you. Connecting with others and healing from the trauma you have faced is important.

Ultimately in times of hardship, remember how amazing you are. As a nurse, you know the value of health, happiness, and living life to the fullest. You see pain every day and know to cherish your family at home. By working on the tips mentioned above, you can move past any trauma resulting from the pandemic, enjoy your life family, and work again.

Nurses with Trauma: How to Move on and Embrace a New Life

It's no lie that working in healthcare is not a stress-free occupation. It can be easy for people to forget that nurses are people and experience emotions like the rest of us.

So how do they deal with the stress of working in such a fast-paced, emotional environment daily?

Remember why you became a nurse:

Remember why you became a nurse is essential in times of stress and overwhelm. The passion for helping others, improving their lives, and helping them heal is why many first enter the profession.

But is this passion enough when nurses around the globe are experiencing trauma frequently throughout their working lives?

While we do not propose to be experts in trauma or qualified to give medical advice, we can suggest making some changes on your own that can help you begin healing from trauma.

Tips to Help Heal from Traumatic Experiences

Get moving:

Don't succumb to hiding under the duvet all day. Get up, get ready, and get outside. Taking a shower, creating simple routines, and experiencing nature will all help improve your mood.

Exercise:

Taking part in a low-impact activity can boost your mood and help improve sleep. Taking long woodland walks or attending a yoga class are great ways to help you unwind.

Get quality sleep:

Getting a good night's sleep can be challenging when you're stressed. But some things can help. Keeping a journal, limiting caffeine intake in the evenings, and switching off screens can all help improve your sleep. If you are still struggling, consider talking to your doctor.

Be aware of negative coping strategies:

Turning to cigarettes, food, alcohol, or drugs as a coping strategy may help relieve trauma symptoms for a short while but will create more problems in the long term. These strategies do not deal with the und

erlying effects of trauma. Seeking help if you feel you are using any of the above as a coping strategy is essential.

Take part in things you enjoy:

Help distract your mind from thinking about your trauma by participating in hobbies and experiences you enjoy. Learn a new skill, spend time with loved ones, or watch your favourite movie. Every positive thing you take part in will help you heal.

Talk to others:

Never underestimate the power of talking. It's important to remember that you are not alone, and other colleagues may feel the same as you. Connecting with others and healing from the trauma you have faced is essential.

Ultimately, in times of hardship, remember how amazing you are. As a nurse, you know the value of health, happiness, and living life to the fullest. You see pain every day and learn to cherish your family at home. By working on the tips mentioned above, you can move past any trauma from the pandemic, enjoy your life with family, and work again.

Reflection:

Did you experience trauma during the pandemic?
Have you already used any of the tips mentioned above? Have they helped you heal?
What other things can you think of to help positively boost your mood?