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Apr 4, 2023

Nurses Mental Health: The Importance of Self-Compassion

Updated: Dec 8, 2023


Nurses Mental Health: The Importance

of Self-Compassion



Only when we are in our most vulnerable state can we appreciate the true value and meaning of self-compassion. And understand how it stems from a deep relationship with oneself, based on an inner understanding of love and the desire for growth.


The moment the person starts to prioritize their mental health, through work on

determination they will begin to experience a higher level of happiness, peace, and

stability. At times it may feel unattainable, but many nurses who experienced trauma

and a decline in their mental health during COVID are starting to recover as they

learn about the importance of self-compassion.




The cycle of trauma can be broken when you realise that you aren't the enemy and

that practicing self-compassion and emotional regulation will help improve your

mental health.





No doubt about it! Nurses' mental health is vulnerable due to the high stress and emotional demands of their profession. As professionals, nurses must understand the significance of self-compassion in preserving their own psychological and emotional health. Being compassionate to oneself entails treating oneself with kindness and acceptance, even in the face of adversity.


Happiness, peace, and stability can be increased by prioritising mental health and practising self-compassion, regardless of the severity of life's stresses or traumas. In the wake of the COVID pandemic, many nurses found solace in learning about and practising self-compassion. Self-compassion and emotional regulation can help break the cycle of trauma and improve mental health. Do not forget that self-compassion is a powerful tool for personal development and overcoming adversity.



Why Nurses mental health is so important?


While the issue of mental health for nurses has always been important, it took on greater urgency during the pandemic. Nurses have reported higher levels of mental health concerns, often connected to the unknown threat of the virus and emotional exhaustion related to constant exposure to pressure and stress in the workplace. In order to heal from the trauma, nurses require empathy and self-compassion in order

to move on. Being self-compassionate during the healing process enables the person to be aware of and process painful feelings, whilst maintaining a deep meaningful connection with themselves, healing at their own pace.


Work-related stress can have a negative impact on healthcare providers and the

quality of care they provide their patients. Therefore nurses; mental health should be

a top priority to ensure a healthy work environment for nurses and their patients.


Tips for practicing self-compassion?


1. Self-care

Self-care includes anything you can do to positively take care of yourself and

help you stay physically, mentally, and emotionally well. There is growing evidence that treating ourselves kindly after trauma can improve

emotional well-being and increase our ability to withstand the impact of future

negative events.


2. Healthy Mindset

Develop a positive mindset by practicing daily gratitude and affirmations to help boost

your confidence and self-esteem. By developing a positive mindset you don’t ignore

negative situations in your life. It will allow you to approach them in a more productive

way and help you believe in the best outcome in a bad situation.


3. Resilience

Develop resilience to stressful situations by looking after your well-being, connecting

with family and friends, practicing self-love, and giving back to your community.


Healing from trauma takes time, effort, and acceptance. Self-compassion and loved

ones; support can help the healing process and promote recovery from mental health

conditions.



 

Reflection


1. Do you practice self-compassion when you are struggling with your mental

health?


2. Do you think you could be kinder to yourself after a hard day at work?


3. What 3 things could you say to yourself to help develop a positive mindset?




 

Sources :


1. https://self-compassion.org/

2. https://www.lifecoach-directory.org.uk/blog/2020/08/11/the-importance-of-self-

compassion#:~:text=Self%2Dcompassion%20allows%20you%20to,in%20the%20fac

e%20of%20adversity.

3. https://www.helpguide.org/articles/ptsd-trauma/coping-with-emotional-and-

psychological-trauma.htm

4. https://www.myamericannurse.com/promoting-nurse-mental-health/

5. https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpubh.2021.679397/full

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