where do I go for help?

EricJRN, MSN, RN · Jul 4, 2006

I think that many people find it hard to take the initial step of sitting down and talking with a professional, but it sounds like you've tried to tough it out and that isn't working anymore. If you're a student, many schools have counseling centers where you can talk to licensed counselors or psychologists, often for free or at a reduced cost. Best of luck to you.

Tweety, BSN, RN · Jul 4, 2006

Does your spouse have an Employee Assistance Program where he works? I used them in the past and immediately recieved professional help for my problems.

I know exactly what you mean about sweeping your feelings under the rug. I'm the master and commander at that.

Good luck. Good advice from Eric also. I saw a counseler at Georgia State many many years ago when I was in school.

Guest717236 · Jul 4, 2006

I have felt many times that I needed help to deal with things but I seem to rationalize my feelings and then sweep them in a neat pile under the rug for a little while longer. I can't do that anymore. Any thoughts and advice is appreciated.

You are wise to take care of yourself both mentally and physically.

The first step is the most difficult. But remember as a nurse

you will often be the person that patients reach out to.

So taking care of yourself is very important.

I took advantage of counseling when I was in school and found it

very helpful. It is a sign of strength to get help.

The suggestions for counseling at school or an employee assistance

program are excellent. Additionally, there may be a mental health center

in your area which has a sliding fee scale as well.

When I worked as a crisis intervention worker we saw people from

all walks of life and circumstances. What I learned is that getting

help as soon as possible is most helpful for many people.

Problems and concerns do not go away by themselves.

A counselor is a professional, do not feel embarrassed to obtain help.

Good luck to you!

CardioTrans, BSN, RN · Jul 4, 2006

Sometimes talking with a "stranger" about your problems is the best thing. The counselor is a professional number 1, also they know nothing about your life, they are not biased. Talking with family and friends is ok, but they are so intertwined with your life, you dont get an unbiased conversation.

Like someone else said, asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Every now and then we all need some help from professionals. You have to take care of yourself and be happy with yourself before you can help someone else.

Employee assistance through your employer or an assistance program through your school is a great idea. There are great counselors out there to help.

fnlyRNstudent05 · Jul 5, 2006

Thank you for the kidness and advice. I know this stuff but I have trouble applying it to myself and I need to move past that to talk to someone. I appreciate the chance to reach out and all of you that are here.

gr8rnpjt, RN · Jul 5, 2006

Sometimes it is hard to get over those "trust issues" when talking to someone you don't know. And you may not always find the right fit with the first therapist you speak to. You will know in a couple of sessions whether or not this is a good fit. But when you do find the right person, it feels so healing when you step into that office. You will start to look forward to the chance to have someone "hear" you. It can feel very invigorating and uplifting.

Don't be afraid to take this next step. If it doesnt feel right ask for someone else to talk to. You will feel very glad that you took the step and obtained the help. Best wishes to you.