Do you wake up every day and dread going to work? Are you bitter and unhappy on the job? Have you found yourself being extremely cynical about a profession you once enjoyed? Chances are, you’re suffering from nursing burnout. The state of the economy and the new healthcare laws have made it a challenging few years to be in the medical industry. Many workplaces have had to do more with less staff, which may be causing you to work longer hours.
The first step to overcoming nursing burnout is to recognize the signs. If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms below, it may be time for a vacation or even a job change.
You’re Easily Angered
One of the first signs of burnout is being highly defensive and quick to anger whenever a supervisor or colleague questions your. While crisis medical situations can become heated, you usually settle down afterwards and return to having a professional attitudes. However, if you notice yourself constantly being short with other team members or feeling the need to verbally attack them, it’s a good indicator that you’re stressed and overwhelmed.
You’re Constantly Complaining
You used to be able to talk for hours about how much you loved your profession. Lately, everything that comes out of your mouth about nursing is negative. Everyone has a bad day every once in a while, but if these negative comments are becoming the norm, you’re reacting negatively due to burnout.
Other Nurses Annoy You
We all have other nurses that we click with and ones that we won’t ever see eye-to-eye with. However, if you’re at the point where you seem to have more enemies than allies, something is wrong. This goes for being overly frustrated with new nurses as well. It’s important to remember that you didn’t walk into this profession knowing everything; you had mentors you learned from. If you aren’t willing to help lend a hand and help your new colleagues learn the ropes, it may be time to take a break.
Change is Your Enemy
Another sign of burnout is being extremely resistant to change. It’s no secret that with the advancement in technologies, the nursing industry is ever-changing. Therefore, if you’re no longer willing to adapt to changes, you’re likely being resistant as a result of burnout.
So, How do You Overcome it?
Overcoming burnout can be as simple as taking a vacation to re-energize and refocus. Perhaps a stay-cation where you can just catch up on sleep and spend time with family members and friends. Other times the best way to overcome burnout is a change in scenery. The great thing about nursing is there are unlimited opportunities and options for a job change.
Need help finding that change of scenery?
Let the recruiters at BOS Medical help. Whether you’re looking for long- or short-term employment, we have access to opportunities at top medical organization in Athens, GA; Gainesville, GA, and beyond. Contact us today and you could be on the job tomorrow.
