A career as an advanced practice registered nurse offers many rich rewards but also has the potential to cause significant stress. As one of the most stressful professions, healthcare finds its professionals in the top ranks of those likely to suffer from burnout, now more than ever.
While some stress is a normal part of life – and can be beneficial in helping to keep us alert and motivated – excess stress can lead to physical, mental, and emotional problems. Recognizing the harmful effects of stress and discovering ways to manage them is crucial for healthcare professionals whose daily actions impact the well-being of many people.
It is crucial that APRNs recognize the warning signs associated with burnout and stress, and take steps to mitigate them. Within the workplace, APRNs should take advantage of opportunities to discuss with others the stress they are experiencing and support one another.
What are the signs of stress and burnout?
The signs of stress and burnout that you should be aware of include physical, emotional, cognitive, and behavioral symptoms.
- Physical signs – These can include headaches, fatigue, muscle tension, and digestive problems.
- Emotional indicators – Emotional symptoms, such as irritability, anxiety, and depression are a clear indicator of stress and burnout.
- Cognitive impairment – Significant stress can affect your cognitive abilities, including the ability to concentrate, make decisions, and even remember things.
- Changes in behavior – Stress and burnout can cause changes in your behavior that include overeating, substance abuse, or withdrawal from social activities.
How to manage stress and burnout
As an APRN, it is crucial that you recognize and manage the symptoms of stress to help you maintain your overall health and well-being, which will allow you to continue to care for your patients. Most importantly, be aware that help is available if you are not able to manage the symptoms you are experiencing on your own.
- Understand that you will have reactions such as anxiety, stress, or grief, to the persistent stressors and potential trauma you are encountering.
- Exercise self-compassion – almost everyone impacted by an emergency will experience psychological distress.
- Acknowledge that experiencing excessive stress or other mental health impacts during this time is not a sign of weakness.
- Give yourself permission to schedule even a few moments for self-care each day.
- Be aware that help is available if symptoms you are experiencing impact your ability to provide care to your patients and your family in the same way you did before the pandemic.
- Connect with your purpose: Acknowledge the crucial and noble work you are doing.
- Create ongoing supportive connections with your colleagues to help validate and normalize your experiences.