Becoming self-care advocates

FigureIn healthcare, we speak often of resilience. I've listened to many discussions on how to combat compassion fatigue and burnout in healthcare, and I've found that the framework can take on different approaches, depending on the presenter. One point of view for combatting burnout centers on how to "adjust your sails" to manage through a crisis: That is, learning how to work through stressful situations and how to integrate those skills into your personal tool chest. Another approach is to learn how to care for yourself as a human being. This includes integrating mental health practices into your daily routine. Recreational activities that recharge your mind and body are essential: Identify the best times to sit alone with your thoughts, read, take an exercise class, take a nap, go out to lunch with friends, take a walk, shop, garden, call an old friend, or maybe watch a favorite movie or a funny sitcom. It's important to identify the routines, comfort zones, and practices that best enhance your well-being as a person, not exclusively as a working professional. When considering self-advocacy, nurses must learn that it's okay to take a time out. Learn how to say no to repeated overtime requests. Schedule time away (even if only for 30 minutes or an hour) dedicated just for you. Leave work, children, and obligations behind and focus only on you. That's a huge accomplishment for most people, and it will look different to each of us. The possibilities are as endless and as individualized as you are. It's also crucial to remember that the practice of self-care, coping skills, and mental health aren't inherent traits for most of us. These are learned behaviors, and sometimes we need help. I have no problem admitting that I've sought counseling during times of extreme duress and grief. The availability of mental health professionals to identify burnout and recommend resources to combat stress is often provided through employee-assistance programs and should be embraced as a valuable resource. The stigma associated with seeking help must be overcome in our society. Suicide rates are up nationally, and nursing suicide rates rose sharply during the pandemic.1 I want to challenge you with another path to self-care: Advocate! Don't simply work on getting tougher and more resilient alone. Work on getting empowered and, in turn, empower others to change the barriers that are accelerating compassion fatigue and burnout. Advocate for safer staffing, better support systems, and resources. Become a part of the shared governance structure in your organization and participate. Find your voice; there are few things more stressful and self-destructive than remaining silent when you know there are better ways. Stay safe, stay healthy, and engage in solutions for yourself and your profession.Figure