The role of nurses, care assistants and support workers in enabling people with health challenges to live well in their communities can be difficult. Working in care homes can be highly pressured, leaving limited times to connect with colleagues. Whilst in domiciliary care, many people may work alone and may not have the immediate support of colleagues. In this section there are short on-the-job practices to help you step back, take time and recalibrate. These are short practices led by registered practitioners to help you rebalance, regain control and positively adapt at times when you feel challenged or just need some space.
Jessie a nurse, clinical training manager and former care worker emphasises the importance of self-awareness, picking up subtle signs that you are under stress and knowing what’s right for you and what is normal.
Ann Marie, a care home manager, describes how she adapted when the usual coping strategies were unreachable.
If you find that you are struggling, please speak to someone you trust.
If you are immediately concerned about yourself or someone else, contact the emergency services by dialling 999. You can also contact your GP or occupational health service who will direct you to appropriate services that can help support you. The following confidential helplines can offer immediate assistance and longer-term advice:
Samaritans: www.samaritans.org
Lifeline: www.lifelinehelpline.info
Nurse Lifeline: www.nurselifeline.org.uk
Public Health Agency: www.publichealth.hscni.net
S.T.O.P. is a short practice to do any time anywhere that can have an immediate effect. This is just like pressing the reset button by stopping to take a breath.
bring your attention to what you are doing right here – right now
make it a deep breath and be aware of how you are breathing
what is going on around you and inside of you. Don’t judge your feelings or thoughts - just observe them and let them pass
move on with your day being aware of how best to look after yourself and those you care for
Sometimes we need a boost, a thought for our day. Here is a selection of quotations you may find helpful.
Join this practice with Christine who demonstrates how a short breathing exercise can help regain balance and a sense of control.
Derek explains and demonstrates how a simple exercise can impact the nervous system helping to promote relaxation.
In these 15 minute practices Christine introduces yoga, demonstrates postures and shows you how to wind down following practice.
Oonagh reveals how art journaling provides a safe space to record thoughts, to reflect, to be creative and have fun!
