Name: Aisha Profession: Nurse Country: Kenya

 Problem Shared by First Person:

Name: Aisha
Profession: Nurse
Country: Kenya

"I have been working as a nurse for the past eight years, and while I love caring for my patients, I often feel emotionally and physically drained. The long hours, the emotional toll of seeing people suffer, and the pressure of always being strong for others sometimes become overwhelming. I don’t want to lose my passion for nursing, but I also don’t know how to cope with this constant exhaustion. What should I do?"

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Response from Askly Help:

Caring for Yourself While Caring for Others

Dear Aisha,

Your dedication to nursing is admirable. You spend your days healing others, but you must also remember that your well-being matters just as much. Burnout in healthcare is real, and recognizing it is the first step toward finding balance.

1. Acknowledge Your Feelings

It’s okay to feel exhausted and emotionally overwhelmed. Being in a profession that requires so much compassion can be draining. Instead of ignoring these feelings, give yourself permission to acknowledge them. Talk to someone you trust—whether it’s a colleague, a friend, or a counselor.

2. Set Healthy Boundaries

While nursing demands a lot, it’s important to establish limits. If possible, take breaks when needed, and don’t be afraid to say no when your workload becomes too much. Outside of work, engage in activities that recharge you—whether it's reading, music, or simply spending time with loved ones.

3. Find Strength in Small Moments

Every day, you make a difference in someone’s life. When you feel overwhelmed, remind yourself of the moments when a patient smiled because of your care or when a family thanked you for your kindness. These small, meaningful moments are proof of the impact you have.

4. Seek Support and Professional Growth

Consider joining a support group for healthcare workers where you can share experiences and coping strategies. If your current role is too demanding, explore options like switching to a different department, working fewer hours, or even engaging in mentorship and training new nurses.

Aisha, your work is invaluable, but you are more than your profession. You deserve care, rest, and support, just as much as the patients you help. Take care of yourself—you are making a difference, and the world needs you strong and healthy.

With warmth,
Askly Help