Recent research has found that nearly a third of nurses are leaving the profession due to stress or declining mental health (2019). The stress and exhaustion of working on the frontline has increased over the years, with many feeling overworked, underpaid and afraid to speak out.
Although workplace stress can become a normal part of day to day life, sometimes it can have a negative impact on our mental and physical health. So how can we take control of workplace stress?
Be organised
Stress can sometimes stem from feeling overwhelmed and unorganised. At the Guild, we’ll help you to stay on track. The Quick Nurse app will help you to manage your diary and schedule when you’re available. You can even use the app to find the fastest route to your shift, via the maps feature. As most of our shifts come in at very short notice, we recommend preparing a work bag on the days you’re available. That way, you’re ready to leave the house the moment we call.
Increase your step count!
Regular exercise can make you feel more confident, relaxed and lower the symptoms associated with anxiety and depression. Exercise can also help you sleep, which is often difficult when you have a lot on your mind.
Connect with people
Feeling alone can be a result of choosing agency work but it’s easy to connect with fellow nurses at the Guild. Join our Facebook page where you can hear stories from your Guild colleagues as well as staying up to date with new opportunities. We also have a specific group for our nurses who need help and advice on Revalidation – if you’re not already a member, sign up here.
Take care of you
Don’t let your work life interfere with your personal life. It’s important to make time for yourself or to see family and friends. At the Guild we understand how valuable time is. That’s why we allow our nurses to work when they want. Many Guild nurses work for us because it allows them to look after their children or a sick relative, attend important family events, or to take a day out here and there for some rest and recuperation.
Remember ‘It’s OK to not be OK’
Having a bad day? Not feeling yourself? That’s OK – you’re entitled to feel like that, we can’t be on top of the world all the time can we? The most important thing to remember, is not to keep things to yourself. Talk to a friend or colleague about how you’re feeling. A problem shared is a problem halved and you’ll find that getting things off your chest makes you feel tons better. If you have a problem that you’d rather not discuss with someone you know, remember you can call the Cavell Nurses’ Trust who will be able to help. You can reach them on 01527 595 999.
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