May is
Mental Health Awareness Month. The phrase "mental health" may seem daunting, but over 18 million people suffer from mental health related issues. If you are experiencing stress, anxiety, or any other mental health related symptoms, please reach out to someone. Below is information on free government resources for your mental health:
Nursing is an immensely rewarding career, yet the constant stress and physical strain can take their toll. For some, meditation may be the answer to lowering stress levels and finding a better mental and emotional balance.
Practicing meditation & breathing has been shown to result in many health & wellness benefits. Overall, it can help lower stress levels, reduce anxiety & depression, and can increase wellbeing, sleep, and self confidence. It can reverse "fight or flight" responses, as well as enhance productivity and result in clearer thinking and memory. Some of the benefits of meditation for nurses include mindfulness — a reflective, relaxed mental state. Meditation can help nurses handle day-to-day workplace stress in a safe and positive fashion, leading to improvements in physical and mental health.
Proponents of meditation frequently say that anyone will find the mind-body practice beneficial. For nurses though, meditation really can make a difference in finding a healthy outlet for work-related stress and depression.
Nurses may experience a range of emotions during any given shift. Empathy for sick and injured patients is certainly a positive attribute of a nurse. However, it can also weigh heavily on your mind and body long after you clock out. Nurses may find meditation helpful in working through these feelings.
Want to feel better? Self-love is the first step. Listen to your thoughts and identify triggers.
Need help?
Interstaff offers many resources to you and your family to help manage mental health related symptoms.
- Interstaff hired a Wellness Manager, Shannon, whose responsibility is to ensure that our nurses and their families are WELL! Shannon is trained in QPR for Suicide Prevention and Mental Health First Aid.
- Meetings are available post-deployment. Please click the link above to schedule.
- Similar to calling 911, the government has recently added 988. This is a 24/7/365 service, available to you at no cost, through call or text.
- 988 is reserved for more emergent cases, meaning you or someone you know is thinking about self harm or harming others.
- The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration hotline is available by calling 1-800-622-HELP (4357). This line is available 24/7/365, is free, and confidential.
- The hotline also provides referrals to local mental health facilities and treatment options.
Nurse Specific Resources
- Peer support program and weekly group meetings to de-stress from nursing.
- Free or discounted therapy sessions for healthcare workers.
- One-on-one sessions and resources to learn how to "debrief" after a long, stressful shift.
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