How Do You Give When You Feel Like You've Have Nothing Else To Give?

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Specializes in Ortho and Tele med/surg.

I know that this question has been asked many times, but I'm asking for support. I've been working as nurse for a year now and honestly I just feel burnt out. I feel that I'm expected to give so much to the patients and family members and I just honestly don't have the passion for it anymore. I spend so much time giving to others that I'm drained. I spend most of days of sleeping with minimal contact with the outside world. I know that many nurses out there have felt this way too. How did you recover? How did you come back to what brought you to nursing in the first place?

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"I just feel burnt out."

Its at this point,that it was apparent I had to care for myself first.

Nursing demands your energy on many levels and you need to

step back and find personal ways to recharge your battery.:D

First, look at your basics-sleeping, eating,and overall health.

Make necessary adjustments, start eating healthy food, start taking naps or rest periods,

get a yearly physical exam.

Start doing small things for yourself. Posting this item here is a break from your routine.

Make a list of things you like or always wanted to do.

If you are too busy to take a dance class for example, get some dvds and start to incorporate

exercise into your day.

If you are working evening or nights, it is even more of a challenge to find time to

do things that you enjoy and that are non nursing.

Connecting with other nurses here or in your personal network helps to give you a time out

so that when you return to your job your love of nursing is renewed...

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I'm a bit late in replying, but I've been in your shoes. I did everything suggested and while it helped in the short term, I always returned to the same place you're at. I finally had to admit that I needed a change in what I specialized in. That's the beauty of nursing. I've gone from hospice to home health, then to school nursing. The school nurse job was just what I needed! I feel invigorated, I look forward to going to work, and the kids make me smile every day. Funny, it was absolutely the last thing I would have considered.....I don't even have children! I've been doing this for a year, and I still count my blessings.

Is there any other area that might interest you? Make a list of your strengths and weaknesses, likes and dislikes. I included things that I absolutely could not deal with anymore, and things to "wish I had".

Good luck, and I hope you find your special place, too. It's there, waiting for you!

mc3:nurse:

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