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Can a profession built on compassion and care also be a source of deep emotional trauma? Join Julie and Caleb on Nursing U as they share stories that are both heartwarming and heart-wrenching, from performing CPR in public places to handling emergencies with unyielding readiness. Their mission is to shatter the facade of perfection in nursing, embracing the quirks and challenges that come with the territory. Through humor and honesty, they reveal how critical care skills shape a nurse’s perception of everyday life, often in the most unexpected ways.

The silent epidemic of PTSD among nurses is a key focus of this episode. Julie and Caleb dig deep into how the relentless stress and trauma inherent in nursing can alter brain chemistry and lead to debilitating symptoms like anxiety and nightmares. They share their own paths to healing, emphasizing the dire need for accessible mental health resources and effective coping strategies. Their candid discussion sheds light on the shortcomings of the current healthcare system in supporting mental well-being, especially in the wake of the pandemic, which has exacerbated these issues to alarming levels.

Finally, we touch on the profound impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of nurses, from the struggles of processing trauma to the pervasive feelings of guilt and shame. Julie and Caleb candidly explore the challenges of balancing professional trauma with personal life, the ineffective nature of superficial mental health initiatives, and the potential benefits of post-care debriefing sessions. They conclude with a hopeful message about the importance of self-reflection, healing, and the resilience that nurses inherently possess. This episode is a heartfelt tribute to the strength of nurses and the critical need for better mental health support in the profession.