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Discussion

This too shall pass?

Wasn't quite sure the most appropriate board for this, so Mods feel free to move as necessary

I've been a nurse for 2 years now, working in Pediatric Oncology for almost a year. Lately, things have seemed more overwhelming at work and I've really been struggling to cope in my personal life.

I've always been sensitive to others needs, have always been a rock to many friends and family in my life but lately I feel I've lost all empathy and ability to help others around me when they have needed me the most. It's not that I lack the capacity to care- I'm avoiding difficult situations outside of work because I just don't have it in me to give any more than I have once I'm finally off shift and free. I used to be a strong person- unbelievably emotionally strong to the point where I could find a silver lining in just about any difficult situation, always upbeat and positive and others struggling would gravitate toward me. Now I feel like I'm a disaster.

I have no patience, get frustrated over the smallest things and feel like I've neglected family and friends who need me. It's bothering me and I feel like a real s***, then I'm overwhelmed with guilt. No win situation.

I'm certain it's due to the emotional strain I deal with daily at work since I've been dealing with one particularly difficult family member for 6 months now.

I love what I do, love my patients but lately I'm questioning whether I am really cut out for this. I'm beginning to think I would be better off working in an ER setting, where there isn't time to get close to families and patients- I can still provide direct care but not get emotionally involved to this extent.

Does this feeling pass? Am I really experiencing burn out this early or is this a normal phase that new nurses go through? Anyone else out there with a similar experience?

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    Try pediatric office nursing. I think that would be a relief for you.

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    Hugs to you, Hopeful. I urge you to contact your EAP, for help. You may or may not be approaching burnout, and it may be time for a change or a break. This site lists some signs of burnout: Preventing Burnout: Signs, Symptoms, Causes, and Coping Strategies

    Talking to a professional will help. Please take care.

    Thank you- this is very helpful. I think I am experiencing burn out...I just ignored most of the warning signs early on which makes sense after reading the article. It's sad that it's so easy to lose yourself in the care of others when it should bring you happiness to know you've had a positive effect on their lives.

    I love Peds but patient's families will wear you down. Definitely do not want to give up on this setting entirely, but a much needed break and time away will do me good.

    Thanks again [emoji4]

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    I had a really hard time adjusting when I was a new grad in oncology. It is a tough speciality. I can imagine it is even more so when you have parents involved. I went through a period of depression for sure. It is hard to see hope, especially when all you see is suffering and death. You eventually get "used" to it. It never gets easy but it is so rewarding. Oncology patients are the best patients, by far (in my opinion). Even though our patients become family (at my job anyway) and we grieve when they die, it is worth it for me. Maybe you just need to give yourself time. I was feeling pretty burned out a while back but then I got a second wind somehow. It is also possible that this specialty is not for you, especially since you mentioned ER where there is less of a relationship formed between the staff and patients. I think you will find your way. One day at a time.

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