New Grad trying to deal with stress

Sour Lemon · Oct 10, 2016

Hello everyone,
I'm a new grad, and have recently started working the floor on a critical care unit. I've noticed that my stress levels have been through the roof lately, and am looking for ways to deal with this whole process. I was thinking of going to a psychiatrist to talk to someone and find ways to cope. Can I get any feedback on that or ways to manage the stress?
Thank you!

A psychiatrist for coping strategies at a new job? That might be a little overboard unless you have some underlying mental illness.

vanilla bean · Oct 10, 2016

I think talking to a therapist or counselor to learn some coping strategies could be a good idea if you're struggling. The ICU can be an intense environment and if you're having a hard time coping, you could benefit from some professional input.

oceanblue52 · Oct 11, 2016

Psychiatrists nor,ally do very little talk therapy and mostly just manage medications. Unless you feel you would benefit from a formal psych diagnosis and medications you would be better off starting with a licensed professional counselor. Yoga, meditation, other physical activity, staying hydrated...all good methods for managing stress. Journaling the stresses and successes on your unit can help keep things in perspective too.

NurseGirl525, ASN, RN · Oct 11, 2016

Does you're employer have a stress center? That may help. Sometimes, going into a high acuity icu can be stressful.

Newgrad665 · Oct 11, 2016

Thank you guys for the imput!!

dream'n, BSN, RN · Oct 11, 2016

I try my very best for my patients, but I remember that I'm only a human. When the crap hits the fan I remind myself of this, because I know whatever happens I have given it my all and done whatever I possibly could. This helps me stay calmer.

Stitch3296 · Oct 11, 2016

During nursing school, how did you cope with the stress? Some of those skills may still work for you. Remember to take time for yourself. Also it will get less overwhelming as time goes by, it can be a lot to take in when you start out. Be patient with yourself and all that you're learning. One thing that really helped change my perspective and helped me when I first started was thinking about what I learned that day, and sometimes if it was a particularly rough day I would journal about it.

Harveyslake · Oct 17, 2016

For what it is worth, what you are experiencing is normal for a new Grad in an ICU. Will take AT LEAST a year to get better. Best advice is to find co workers on your shift who are approachable and kindly ask if they could act as backup for you when you encounter something stressful that you don't yet know or understand. Ask questions!!! There is no substitute for experience except,....experience.

ottersloveoysters · Oct 17, 2016

Have you found any nurses on the floor that you can talk with? The people who know what you are going through are the other people in the trenches with you. When I have a rough day or a patient passes away, I go to the nurses I trust and talk things through with them.