Today I sit down with Marie Cockerham, MN, RN, CCRN, Support Specialist & Health Program Operations Specialist and Cheri Constantino-Shor, MSN, RN, CMSRN, CRNI Director of Professional Engagement and Nursing Excellence to talk about where we are with the pandemic right now as a healthcare community.

Let me tell you, this was a validating and difficult conversation to have. We were *not* in a great place before the pandemic hit, so it is not surprising to learn about the toll it is taking on us. Per a study referenced in the interview, 75% - 77% of us are experiencing a clinical diagnosis of depression, anxiety, PTSD or insomnia. That is most of us!

The way through is not an easy fix. It's time we are transparent about how we are doing when we consider re-building. Nursing is not the same as it was in 2019.

So, we talk about what we can do as individuals and as healthcare leaders. Some of the work is personal and some of it is organizational. Both Marie and Cheri say utilizing the military's Stress First Aid Model is helpful. Staff truly need support in this time, so peer support programs are essential, as well as having authentic leadership as highlighted in the Healthy Work Environment by AACN. The emotional well-being of healthcare providers is a national top priority.

If you are struggling, please know you are not alone. Here are some resources. Please get help if you are having a tough time.

Suicide Hotline

1-800-273-8255

Crisis Line

Emotional PPE - an organization that offers free counseling to healthcare workers

Use your Employee Assistance Program for counseling services

Better Help

Thank you!

Stay Safe & Stay Sane,

Nicole