A heavy workload, stress from the job, time pressure, and lack of support and resources contributed to this fatigue. On top of all that, nursing is sometimes a thankless task, where the work isn’t appreciated or rewarded enough. Self-care is crucial to keep you at the top of your game physically, mentally, and emotionally. Here are a few things nurses can do to take care of themselves.

Pay attention to your body

You may be adept at caring for other people’s bodies, but looking after yours is just as important. Taking walks, biking, and lifting weights are easy ways to stay active off the clock. Physical exercise can also help with thinking, problem-solving, and regulating emotions, according to the CDC. Eating healthy and staying hydrated also ensures your body and brain function at their best. Instead of ordering fast food or going to the cafeteria, prepare healthy meals at home to bring to work. A healthy body can bring out the best of your abilities to reach your peak condition.

Find time for yourself

Nurses spend a lot of time with all kinds of people, patients and staff alike. It can be overwhelming having to attend to the needs of others, so when you have the time, treat yourself to something nice or do something you enjoy to help you relax. Read a book, paint, go to a spa, spend time in nature — do whatever helps you unwind the best. Even buying yourself the food you’ve been craving for some time or spending the whole day lounging at home can help you feel much more rested and restored.

Reach out to others

Struggling in silence will not help negative feelings dissipate; you’ll more likely feel worse. A study published in the Journal of Social and Personal Relationships pointed out that socializing with others and being able to confide in trusted people can lessen loneliness and depressed moods. If you’re feeling worn out, reach out to a mentor for guidance or talk to fellow nurses and share experiences in the workplace. You can call or meet up with friends and family for support too. You don’t have to talk about the heavy stuff right away. Just conversing with someone about anything can be a big stress reliever. If you have the time and resources, speaking with a therapist can further help you process your thoughts and emotions.

Acknowledge your worth

Nurses often don’t get the recognition they deserve, affecting their self-esteem. However, nurses should always remind themselves of the critical role they play in patient care. A feature on nurse appreciation by Maryville University highlights how nurses can help reduce the lengths of patient stays, patient mortality rates and a number of other preventable issues — particularly during times of crisis. When the going gets tough, remember that the work you do changes and saves lives, and that has immeasurable value. Be a pillar of support for other nurses and uplift each other in good times and bad. Having others to relate to can make your experiences feel less isolating, and they’ll know how to encourage you best. Knowing that your care for others is making a difference is an excellent form of self-care too.

For all the things nurses do for others, they deserve the best opportunities and work that knows their value. Nurseify finds the best assignments and facilities for them and makes sure they’re well taken care of. 

Exclusively for nurseify.app 

By J Olivar