New Grad in Psych

[Zelda, RN]

I'm a new grad who graduated in May 2015. I've been working in an inpatient pediatric psych unit for about 3 months now. I'm already becoming burnt out. :/ This is exhausting! I feel like I'm not helping anyone, just holding these kids off from committing suicide until next time. Sending them home with less than stellar parents, where they technically aren't abused but aren't really supported either. I am familiar with mental health, as my family has dealt a lot with foster care and adoption, and my brother suffers from depression. I thought I could handle it, but I'm so exhausted. Is this just new grad burnout? Will it get better? I'm trying to stick it out to 6 months, but I don't know if I can. I'm also working nights, which is exhausting in itself. And I'm newly married, but I feel like I never get to see my husband!

I'm just looking for some encouragement, or maybe some advice. I don't know.

[macfar28]

Please realize you are helping these kids even if it doesn't feel like it. You're providing crisis management and keeping them alive while also teaching them coping skills. That is significant. Give yourself time as it will get better. You will start to see the bigger picture over time. Celebrate the small victories and the light bulb moments these kids have. Also remember there is hope for them. They are getting the treatment they need earlier than most.

As for nights and family life...if it's not working for you make a switch. I've been on nights for 11 years and am transitioning to days in 3 weeks. It has taken a toll on my health and family relationships. Why I've waited this long is beyond me. Listen to your gut and make a change. Also, could it be the fatigue from nights that's causing some burnout? It would be understandable. Our bodies really aren't designed to be up all night.