RN struggling

[Iceisnice]

I'm a registered nurse who changed jobs during the pandemic. I've been face to face with covid patients. After approx 5 months of working I was so anxious at work that I had to leave the new position. Of course, I already have a new position starting in September. But right now I'm not working and am anxious all the time, even started on medication daily. I know all the coping skills, but have trouble using them right now. Any little thing can set the panic off. I'm sure others are experiencing this & am reaching out so we can help each other

[Dreamer27]

Are you anxious because you're afraid to get the COVID? If you're not working, it would be a good time to try and find a hobby that will help you relax in this time. To keep you occupied but your mind not busy.

[Iceisnice in reply to Dreamer27]

I'm not anxious about getting covid, already went thru that. I'm anxious about going out because of having to wear a mask everywhere. I was fine about wearing them at work, but that was different. I guess I just want normal life back, and I feel that won't happen.

[hypercat54 in reply to Iceisnice]

I think we all feel like that. Sadly I can't see it happening soon.

[Iceisnice]

I know I am more fortunate than many others facing the pandemic. Finances are not a problem, I have supportive friends, and I have a career that is in high demand. I have helped those less fortunate financially & in other ways. Sometimes I think this anxiety is a cumulative effect of years of having to see horrible situations for so many people, now this nationwide tragedy pushed me to my limit.

[hypercat54 in reply to Iceisnice]

We have all suffered in our own ways. I am retired and on my own. I don't have children to help me. I have lung disease and chronic back pain. I can't get an online shopping slot for love or money so have to manage my own shopping etc. Imagine how difficult it is for me to queue, carry shopping and having to follow arrows right round the store, all while wearing a mask (I am exempt but it's better than risking furious looks or words).

I know I can get help but have to go out to avoid being alone 24/7, so it's hobsons choice really.

I am not downplaying your experiences, but just pointing out that many others are suffering too even if it's for different reasons.

[Iceisnice in reply to hypercat54]

I am sorry for your difficulties, and you are right, there are many more less fortunate than I am. As a nurse, I feel for people in pain, emotional or physical. That is quite taxing as well. One neighbor had a bad stroke recently, of course they come to me for advice. A close friend was diagnosed with colon cancer, recently had surgery. I've mourned the death of many patients and grieve for the families who can't even have proper funerals. Nor could they be with them at the time of their death. I care very much about people.

[aduirne in reply to Iceisnice]

Reminding people who are in pain that others have it worse is not really very supportive. It isn't a contest and you have nothing to prove.

[aduirne]

I have time off before teaching remotely and I am trying to fill it as best as I can. I'd walk more but it is very hot outside. Today I drove around inventing errands to run because my anxiety seems to be peaking the same time each day. I think you have a point with the cumulative effect of anxiety. Even when my tinnitus isn't spiking (the current reason for my high anxiety) I still suddenly get anxious in the middle of the grocery store. I am on Paxil but I can no longer use anything sedating.

[Iceisnice in reply to aduirne]

I hear you about the grocery store. I don't like going anywhere. As a nurse, I notice people doing all the things they shouldn't do. This, of course, adds to my anxiety because I would like to say something, but there is so much anger and violence, I don't. Anxiety is a horrible feeling, no matter the cause.

[aduirne in reply to Iceisnice]

I am in the states where people are refusing to wear masks or wear them improperly. I yelled at a couple in the store a few weeks ago when I saw they didn't have them on or around their necks. I'm so over the willful ignorance of some people here.

[Iceisnice in reply to aduirne]

I don't totally blame people. There are so many contradictions about this virus. I've been reading about it before the first US case. It's a very complex virus that is very different from similar viruses. But it has created havoc in the world & so many have suffered.

[Hidden]

I deeply appreciate all of the people working in these hospitals these days, from the medical staff to the janitorial crew, it's got to be so stressful. I could never be a full registered nurse, you have to know so much and be able to deal with a lot. I have gotten to a point where I'm totally ignoring the news because it will make my anxiety go through the roof. I wish you the best.