The Power of Mindfulness inManaging Stress & Anxiety

As we observe National Suicide Prevention Month, it is important to prioritize our own mental health and also offer support to those that may be struggling. This month, Audrey Boyce Leadership and Wellness Coaching is placing special focus on mental health issues and suicide prevention for nurses and those within the healthcare industry.

Importance of Awareness

According to National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), over 47,000 lives are lost each year in the United States to suicide. By raising awareness we are helping to combat the stigma often associated with mental health issues. Also, understanding the warning signs can be life saving.

Risk Factors for Suicide

Suicide often results from untreated mental health conditions. Some factors that may contribute to the risk for suicide include job stress, financial problems, health or mental health issues, problems with relationships, and substance abuse. 

The National Alliance on Mental Illness lists the following warning signs of suicide:

• Increased drug or alcohol use

• Aggressive behavior

• Withdrawal from family, friends, and community

• Dramatic mood swings

• Impulsive or reckless behavior

The following are listed as suicidal behaviors:

• Saving pills or purchasing a weapon

• Giving away possessions

• Tying up loose ends; organizing personal papers and paying off debt

• Saying goodbye to family and friends

Nationwide Help Line:

Suicide is too often a subject that people don’t want to talk about. There is a stigma attached to suicide that prevents people from seeking help. The National Alliance for Mental Illness now has a nationwide number to contact for those that need support during a mental health crisis. 

Call or text 988 for the Suicide Crisis Lifeline.  It’s available 24/7, no matter where you live.

Finding Calm in the Chaos:The Power of Mindfulness for Nurses

The waves crashed violently against the shore as the storm raged on. The once calm sea was now a turbulent mess, with towering swells and fierce winds. As I watched this scene unfold, I was reminded of the chaos that nurses face daily. Our minds can feel like a storm - overwhelmed with stress, pressure, and uncertainty. But just as the sea returns to calm after the tempest passes, we too can find serenity through mindfulness.

Mindfulness is being fully present and aware of the moment without judgment.

It helps us tune out distractions and focus on the task at hand. For nurses, mindfulness is finding calm in the chaos. It is taking a deep breath amidst the swirl of machines beeping, orders changing, and patients needing care. Mindfulness gives us the ability to respond skillfully rather than react rashly.

Cultivating Mindfulness

Like learning any new skill, cultivating mindfulness takes practice.

• Start small - take just 60-90 seconds a few times a day to check in with yourself.

• Notice how your body feels - where is there tension? Take a few deep breaths.

• Observe your thoughts and emotions non-judgmentally.

Over time, you will find this mindfulness muscle gets stronger, bringing you back to equilibrium.

Learn more.